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The Tennesee Titans have made it clear that their focus this offseason will be retooling the offense around quarterback Marcus Mariota's skill set. As a result, there may not be much of a role for running back DeMarco Murray moving forward.
There has been speculation for a while now about Murray's uncertain future in Tennessee with the emergence of running back Derrick Henry. According to ESPN's Cameron Wolfe, this could be the offseason the Titans decide to part ways.
Article Continues BelowMurray will soon be 30 years old, coming off an injury-plagued and disappointing 2017 season. Mike Mularkey had a special affinity for Murray, but new coach Mike Vrabel will go in a different direction. Murray has two years left on his deal, but there is no penalty to release him, and he's no longer worth the $6.25 million salary he is due. Everyone assumes the 6-foot-3, 245-pound Henry would then become Tennessee's 25-touch-a-game back, but the Titans will bring in a more versatile back via free agency, trade or the draft. That back will own passing downs, become a favorite target for Marcus Mariota and force Henry into a time-share for the third consecutive season.
Murray and Henry have formed one of the more promising backfield duos over the last two seasons. However, the veteran's age and looming health concerns give the Titans little reason to spare any more carries while his partner is starting to come into his own.
Regardless, there aren't many players in the league that can match Murray's skill set as both a runner and a receiver. Minnesota Vikings running back Jerrick McKinnon certainly fits the same mold and is set to hit the market. However, he has been vocal about wanting a workhorse role similar to that of what Henry is set to receive.
It will be interesting to see how the Titans will approach their backfield situation in what is supposed to be a revamped 2018 NFL season.
