Tough Decisions Ahead: Titans May Cut Ties with Two Defensive Veterans This Offseason
As the Tennessee Titans head into a pivotal offseason, tough roster decisions loom. With a new coaching staff taking over and salary cap constraints in play, reports suggest that the team may part ways with two defensive veterans in an effort to free up cap space and transition to a younger core.
While nothing is official yet, two names that have surfaced in potential cut discussions are:
- Denico Autry (DE/OLB) – The 33-year-old pass rusher has been a key contributor for Tennessee’s defense over the past three seasons, consistently generating pressure on quarterbacks. However, with his contract expiring and the Titans looking to get younger in the front seven, moving on from Autry could open cap space for other needs.
- Kevin Byard (S) – Byard, a longtime leader and fan favorite, was already asked to take a pay cut last offseason. Despite remaining a solid presence in the secondary, his $14+ million cap hit in 2024 could make him a cap casualty, especially if Tennessee wants to reallocate resources to other areas.
The Titans are entering a retooling phase after a disappointing season, and cap flexibility is crucial. Cutting these veterans could save the team over $20 million, allowing them to target offensive line help, wide receivers, or a young defensive playmaker in free agency or the draft.
While nothing is set in stone, these potential moves signal a shift in the Titans’ roster-building strategy. If the team does decide to part ways with Autry and Byard, it could mark the beginning of a youth movement under the new coaching regime.
