As the 2024 NFL season approaches, the Tennessee Titans find themselves in an interesting situation. The team has shown glimpses of greatness over recent seasons. However, inconsistency and gaps in key areas have hampered their ability to break through as a true powerhouse in the league. To address these deficiencies, strategic trades are essential. Identifying the right talent to bolster both sides of the ball could be the difference between another middling season and a championship-contending campaign. Here, we delve into the top three trade targets the Titans must pursue to round out their 2024 roster: John Cominsky, Tremaine Edmunds, and Budda Baker.
The Titans So Far
The Titans entered the 2024 offseason with substantial cap space and have utilized a significant portion of it over the past few months. Despite their spending, the Titans remain in a strong financial position. They currently hold $24.4 million in cap space as they approach training camp. This financial flexibility allows them the opportunity to make further impactful additions in free agency.
The front office was proactive during the NFL offseason. They brought in a wealth of talent to enhance the roster. Notable acquisitions included Calvin Ridley, Tyler Boyd, Tony Pollard, and L'Jarius Sneed. All of them should make significant contributions.
Of course, after the Titans' final OTA practice on Tuesday, head coach Brian Callahan indicated that the team is still open to adding more players before training camp begins. One key position to monitor is safety. This is where Elijah Molden is anticipated to start alongside Amani Hooker. However, there is uncertainty about his reliability. A major safety who might still be available on the trading bloc is the aforementioned Baker, among others.
Here we'll look at the three players whom the Tennessee Titans can consider their best target targets to round out 2024 roster.
John Cominsky, EDGE
The Detroit Lions seem well-stocked on the edge with Aidan Hutchinson. They also added Marcus Davenport, who could contribute 8-10 sacks from the opposite side. However, after recording four sacks in 556 snaps for Detroit two seasons ago, sixth-year pro John Cominsky's production dropped significantly last year.
Cominsky accepted a substantial pay cut to remain with the Lions. Nevertheless, this was before Davenport joined the roster. With NFL teams constantly seeking defensive front help, Detroit might consider trading Cominsky for some draft capital.
Cominsky's value extends beyond his statistics, too. His relentless drive and versatility to play both inside and outside on the defensive line make him a significant asset. In 2023, Cominsky posted 2 sacks and 14 solo tackles, demonstrating his disruptive capability against both the run and pass. His addition would significantly strengthen a Titans defensive line that has struggled with consistency and depth. Acquiring Cominsky would not only boost the pass rush. It could also enhance the team's defensive flexibility, allowing for more creative scheming by the coaching staff.
Tremaine Edmunds, LB
A year ago, the Chicago Bears signed linebacker Tremaine Edmunds to a four-year, $72 million contract. In 2024, Edmunds will be reuniting with defensive coordinator Eric Washington, who previously coached the defensive line in Buffalo during Edmunds' tenure there. The 26-year-old linebacker is looking forward to this reunion. However, Edmunds did not perform to the level expected of an $18 million linebacker last season. He was outperformed by fellow newcomer TJ Edwards and surprisingly struggled in coverage at times.
Despite these setbacks, Edmunds' presence in the middle of the defense would offer the Titans a stabilizing force capable of making plays across the field. His ability to read offenses and make timely stops would address one of the Titans' most critical weaknesses: their vulnerability to big plays. Furthermore, Edmunds' experience and leadership would be invaluable in mentoring younger defensive players. He could help foster a culture of excellence and accountability within the team.
Budda Baker, S
Budda Baker had another stellar season in 2023. He earned his sixth Pro Bowl selection despite missing five games. However, trade rumors surrounding him persisted throughout the season and intensified once it ended.
Baker is entering the final year of his contract. The Arizona Cardinals have another top-tier safety in Jalen Thompson and recently drafted Dadrion Taylor-Demerson from Texas Tech. Given the Cardinals' current state, Baker is unlikely to make them contenders in 2024. He should leave after the season.
This is where a trade to the Titans could make sense for both squads. Baker's ability to line up anywhere in the secondary and make significant plays would be transformative for Tennessee. His presence would enable the Titans to adopt more aggressive defensive schemes, knowing they have a dependable safety in Baker. Additionally, Baker's leadership and championship mindset would bring a heightened level of intensity and focus to the entire defense. This makes him an ideal acquisition for the Titans.
Looking Ahead
The potential acquisitions of Cominsky, Edmunds, and Baker would address critical needs and transform the Titans into a more balanced and formidable team. These trades would not only enhance the team's performance on the field. They would also instill a culture of excellence and determination. As the 2024 season looms, the time is now for the Titans to act boldly and decisively, ensuring that their roster is ready to compete for the ultimate prize: the Super Bowl.
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