Tennessee Titans Strengthen Roster with Waiver Claims of OLB Titus Leo and DB Mark Perry
In a strategic move to bolster their defense, the Tennessee Titans have been awarded linebacker Titus Leo and defensive back Mark Perry off waivers. This decision underscores the team’s commitment to enhancing their defensive lineup and providing opportunities for emerging talent to contribute to the squad.
Titus Leo: A Promising Edge Rusher
Background and College Career
Titus Leo, a 25-year-old linebacker standing 6’3″ and weighing 245 pounds, hails from Wagner College, an FCS institution. Despite the challenges of playing at a smaller school, Leo showcased exceptional skills that caught the attention of NFL scouts. His collegiate career was marked by impressive statistics, including 71 pressures and 10 sacks over his final two seasons, highlighting his potential as a pass rusher.
NFL Journey
Leo’s professional journey began when he was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. However, his rookie season was marred by a season-ending injury, limiting his opportunities to make an impact. In 2024, Leo was signed to the New England Patriots’ 53-man roster from the Colts’ practice squad. During his tenure with the Patriots, he appeared in four games, recording four tackles and one tackle for loss. Despite limited playing time, Leo’s performance demonstrated his readiness for the NFL stage.
Fit with the Titans
The Titans’ decision to claim Leo off waivers reflects their assessment of his potential to contribute to their defensive schemes. Leo’s ability to rush the passer and his versatility in defensive alignments make him a valuable addition to the Titans’ linebacker corps. His experience with the Patriots provides him with a solid foundation to integrate into the Titans’ defensive system.
Mark Perry: A Versatile Defensive Back
Background and College Career
Mark Perry, a defensive back with a background in both Colorado and Texas Christian University (TCU), brings a wealth of experience to the Titans’ secondary. Known for his versatility and football intelligence, Perry has demonstrated the ability to play multiple positions in the defensive backfield, including safety and cornerback. His college career was highlighted by his leadership on the field and his knack for making crucial plays in critical moments.
NFL Experience
Perry entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Miami Dolphins in 2024. Throughout his professional journey, he has spent time on practice squads with the Dolphins, Houston Texans, and New England Patriots. While he has yet to secure a permanent spot on an active roster, Perry’s time on practice squads has allowed him to refine his skills and gain a deeper understanding of NFL-level play.
Fit with the Titans
The Titans’ decision to claim Perry off waivers is indicative of their interest in adding depth and versatility to their secondary. Perry’s ability to play multiple positions in the defensive backfield provides the Titans with flexibility in their defensive schemes. His experience on practice squads has prepared him to step into a more prominent role and contribute to the team’s success.
Strategic Implications for the Titans
The waiver claims of Leo and Perry are part of the Titans’ broader strategy to strengthen their defense. By adding players with diverse skill sets and experiences, the Titans aim to enhance their defensive capabilities and increase competition within the roster. These moves also reflect the team’s commitment to developing talent and providing opportunities for players to prove their worth.
Depth and Competition
Leo’s addition to the linebacker corps introduces a player with pass-rushing potential, which can complement the existing defensive lineup. His presence creates healthy competition for starting positions, encouraging players to elevate their performance levels. Similarly, Perry’s versatility in the secondary adds depth to the defensive backfield, allowing the Titans to adapt to various offensive schemes and personnel groupings.
Developmental Opportunities
Both Leo and Perry are relatively young players with room for growth. The Titans’ coaching staff can focus on developing their skills and integrating them into the team’s defensive strategies. Providing these players with opportunities to contribute can lead to long-term benefits for the team, as they gain experience and become more effective contributors.
Special Teams Contributions
In addition to their roles on defense, both Leo and Perry have the potential to contribute on special teams. Their athleticism and understanding of the game can be assets in coverage units and other special teams roles. This versatility further enhances their value to the Titans, as they can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Looking Ahead
As the Titans prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Leo and Perry off waivers adds depth and competition to their defense. Both players bring unique skill sets and experiences that can contribute to the team’s success. The coaching staff will focus on integrating them into the defensive schemes and providing opportunities for them to showcase their abilities.
The Titans’ proactive approach in claiming these players off waivers demonstrates their commitment to building a competitive and dynamic roster. By adding players like Leo and Perry, the team aims to strengthen its defense and position itself for success in the upcoming season.
the waiver claims of Titus Leo and Mark Perry signify the Tennessee Titans’ dedication to enhancing their defensive lineup. By adding players with diverse skill sets and experiences, the team aims to bolster its defense and increase competition within the roster. As the season approaches, the integration of these players into the team’s defensive schemes will be crucial in achieving the Titans’ goals for the upcoming season.
