Titans offseason points to taking QB in NFL Draft
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Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi. Photo: Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images
New Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi made a huge investment in the offensive line, two smaller investments on defense and swapped out veteran punters in the early days of free agency.
Why it matters: The flurry of moves may be most notable for the position Borgonzi has not addressed: quarterback.
- By not investing in a starting quarterback, the Titans could be sending the signal that they're leaning toward taking Cam Ward with the first pick in next month's draft.
Zoom in: Borgonzi struck a lucrative free agent deal with Dan Moore Jr. to be the Titans' new starting left tackle. The team also agreed to sign former Pro Bowl guard Kevin Zeitler Wednesday to a one-year deal, according to ESPN.
- He also signed linebacker Cody Barton to a $21 million contract and safety Xavier Woods to a $10 million deal, indicating both players will be expected to be key contributors next season.
- In a mild surprise, Borgonzi parted ways with veteran punter Ryan Stonehouse and signed former Pro Bowl punter Johnny Hekker to take his place.
- On Wednesday, the team agreed to terms with offensive lineman Blake Hance and wide receiver Van Jefferson in moves that add depth to those units.
Zoom out: The biggest offseason question for the Titans is how they would utilize the first overall pick in the draft, a prize the franchise won for being the worst team in the NFL last season.
- Ward, the former University of Miami star, is viewed as the draft's top quarterback.
- The Titans have shown interest in signing veteran Russell Wilson, but he would be a stopgap as opposed to a longterm option.
What's next: The draft takes place April 24-26 in Green Bay.
The bottom line: By focusing on other positions, Borgonzi has positioned the team to select a franchise quarterback.