Mike Borgonzi will have to make important choices regarding Derrick Henry, Ryan Tannehill, and other important Titans free agents.

As the Tennessee Titans approach the 2025 NFL offseason, the franchise finds itself at a significant crossroads. Under new general manager Mike Borgonzi, the team will need to make a series of crucial decisions that will not only impact their immediate future but also shape the long-term trajectory of the organization. Among the most pressing issues are the free-agent decisions regarding several key players, including franchise stalwarts like Derrick Henry and Ryan Tannehill, who have been cornerstones of the team for several years. Borgonzi’s ability to navigate these decisions, balancing financial constraints with competitive aspirations, will be critical as the Titans aim to build a roster capable of contending for championships in the years ahead.

The Titans have experienced a mix of highs and lows in recent seasons, with occasional flashes of brilliance, most notably their appearance in the 2020 AFC Championship Game. However, there has been a growing sense that the team has plateaued in terms of overall success. While the franchise has a strong foundation, the time has come for Borgonzi to reassess the team’s core and make tough decisions on both sides of the ball. Some of the most notable decisions will involve veteran players who have been integral to the team’s identity.

This article will explore the key free agents that Mike Borgonzi will need to make decisions on, including the pros and cons of retaining each player and the potential impact of those decisions on the future of the franchise.

1. Derrick Henry: The Heart of the Offense

Derrick Henry has been the cornerstone of the Titans’ offensive identity for several years. As one of the most dominant running backs in the NFL, Henry has been the primary engine that powers the team’s ground-and-pound offense. His ability to break tackles, outrun defenders, and impose his will on opposing defenses has made him a household name and a game-changer.

However, as the NFL has evolved, so too has the conversation surrounding the value of running backs. While Henry is still among the most productive players in the league, his style of play – characterized by heavy usage and a bruising, physical approach – comes with a certain amount of wear and tear. Henry is no longer a young player, and at 30 years old (as of the 2025 season), questions about his long-term viability as a bell-cow back are valid.

Borgonzi must weigh the decision of whether to continue investing in Henry for the short-term benefit or explore options that could provide the Titans with more long-term stability at the running back position. The Titans will need to consider whether to extend Henry for another few years, restructure his contract to make it more cap-friendly, or potentially move on and look for a younger back in the draft or free agency.

The argument for keeping Henry is compelling. His leadership, his ability to change the course of a game with one play, and his status as the focal point of the offense make him a central piece. However, the potential risks associated with his age and the heavy workload he has carried over the years could make his contract a significant financial commitment. Borgonzi’s ability to balance the financial implications of retaining a player of Henry’s caliber while also positioning the team for future success will be one of his most critical decisions.

2. Ryan Tannehill: The Quarterback Dilemma

Ryan Tannehill has been the Titans’ starting quarterback since 2019, guiding the team to the playoffs multiple times and helping to revive the franchise’s fortunes after the departure of Marcus Mariota. However, like Henry, Tannehill’s time with the Titans appears to be reaching a crossroads. While he has been solid, even excellent at times, Tannehill has also shown inconsistencies, particularly in high-stakes situations. His play during critical moments has raised doubts about whether he is the quarterback who can lead the team to a Super Bowl.

Tannehill will be entering the final years of his contract, and with the Titans potentially in the midst of a rebuilding phase or looking for a more dynamic future at quarterback, Borgonzi faces a tough decision. Does he bring Tannehill back for another season, or does he look for a long-term replacement either in the draft or through free agency?

The decision surrounding Tannehill will ultimately depend on a few factors: his performance in 2024, the potential availability of other quarterbacks in the market, and the franchise’s overall direction. If Tannehill continues to show flashes of brilliance but is ultimately unable to elevate the team in the postseason, Borgonzi might consider looking for a younger quarterback in the draft to build around for the future. Alternatively, if Tannehill proves he can still lead the team and elevate the offense, Borgonzi might decide to extend him for a year or two, allowing the Titans to continue competing while grooming a future quarterback.

On the other hand, if Borgonzi opts to part ways with Tannehill, the Titans will need to act quickly to secure a new quarterback. Whether through the draft or free agency, this decision will likely be one of the most significant in determining the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons.

3. Taylor Lewan: A Veteran Left Tackle Facing Uncertainty

Taylor Lewan has been one of the Titans’ most respected and productive players over the past decade. The veteran left tackle has anchored the offensive line and been a key contributor to the team’s success on offense, particularly in the running game. However, injuries have plagued Lewan in recent seasons, limiting his ability to stay on the field and perform at the high level that he once did.

At 33 years old and coming off multiple seasons with injuries, Lewan’s future with the Titans is uncertain. The question Borgonzi must answer is whether Lewan can still be an elite protector on the left side of the line, or if the Titans need to move forward and invest in younger talent at the tackle position. If Lewan is healthy and able to return to form, he could still be a solid contributor for the Titans. However, if the team feels that Lewan’s best years are behind him, Borgonzi may look to release him or explore trade options to clear cap space and secure younger talent.

A decision on Lewan will ultimately come down to the franchise’s priorities. If they are looking to stay competitive in the short term, retaining Lewan and providing him with a more flexible contract could make sense. However, if Borgonzi sees the need to rebuild the offensive line, a change may be necessary, and Lewan’s departure could pave the way for a fresh start.

4. David Long Jr. and Zach Cunningham: Linebacker Depth and Stability

The Titans’ linebacker corps, led by David Long Jr. and Zach Cunningham, has been one of the team’s strongest units in recent years. Both players have been integral to the defense, providing leadership, coverage ability, and strong tackling in the middle of the field. However, Long and Cunningham are both entering free agency, and the Titans must decide whether to retain both or look to add new talent to the position.

Long, in particular, has been a standout player for the Titans. Known for his speed, tackling ability, and high football IQ, Long has developed into one of the top linebackers in the NFL. However, his potential market value could make re-signing him challenging. Cunningham, on the other hand, has had some injury concerns but still offers a solid presence in the middle of the defense.

Given the importance of linebacker play in the Titans’ defensive system, Borgonzi will need to weigh the value of keeping both players or moving on to cheaper, younger alternatives. The decision will likely come down to whether Borgonzi feels Long and Cunningham are integral to the defense’s success or if the team can find more affordable or more effective options.

5. Amani Hooker and Kevin Byard: The Safety Duo

Amani Hooker and Kevin Byard have formed one of the stronger safety tandems in the NFL in recent years. Byard, in particular, is a proven star and one of the league’s top playmaking safeties. However, Hooker will be a free agent soon, and Byard’s contract may become an issue as he continues to age. While both players have been excellent contributors, the Titans will need to make decisions about their future in the secondary.

Retaining Hooker and Byard could give the Titans a strong safety presence for the next few years. However, the team may look to invest in younger talent if they believe that the current safety group is no longer the optimal fit for the defense’s long-term success.