Why Titans made the right call to not franchise tag Derrick Henry

The Tennessee Titans have reportedly decided not to apply the franchise tag to star running back Derrick Henry prior to the deadline of March 5. ESPN’s Adam Schefter made this first known. Here, we examine the bold move taken by the Titans, which has inevitably generated discussions throughout the NFL. We want to provide some insight into the thinking behind this tactical decision by carefully analyzing its effects. We also attempt to assess any possible effects on the Titans’ schedule for the 2024 NFL offseason.

The 2023 season for the Titans was turbulent. It was characterized by difficulties and disappointments. The team’s dismal 6-11 record prevented them from making the playoffs. Naturally, this baffled observers as well as supporters. Though they had occasional bursts of genius, their performances were inconsistent, which clouded their hopes for achievement.

The Titans were hoping to improve upon their lackluster 7–10 record from the previous season and make the playoffs for the first time since 2018. But an overtime defeat to the Houston Texans in Week 15 ended their aspirations. This was the second year in a row that they missed the playoffs. Their 7-10 record from 2022 did not improve as they lost to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 16, which cemented their spot at the bottom of the AFC South. As a result, the Titans announced a major leadership change on January 9 when they fired former head coach Mike Vrabel.

The Titans’ Preseason Prospects

Of the Titans’ upcoming free agents in 2024, Derrick Henry is the most notable. Even while at first both sides were willing to keep their relationship going, we now know that’s highly unlikely to happen. First and foremost, Henry has expressed signs that he expects to leave and has emphasized how crucial a Super Bowl victory is. To be honest, the Titans might not provide that opportunity in 2024.

In addition, we have to take into account the Titans’ switch to a more pass-oriented game plan under head coach Brian Callahan. This makes it practically hard for them to commit the required funds to keep a 30-year-old running back, especially given that they are a team that is in transition. It would have been more reasonable to make this choice if Tennessee had kept Vrabel as head coach.

It was clear that a separation was in both parties’ best interests when looking at the circumstances objectively. Everyone anticipates that Henry will undoubtedly look for possibilities elsewhere in 2024 as a result.

We’ll examine the reasons why the Tennessee Titans chose not to franchise tag Derrick Henry in this article.

Anticipated

It was hardly shocking that the Tennessee Titans declined to sign Derrick Henry with the franchise tag. This was particularly relevant in light of the running back’s parting remarks to supporters after the final home game of the 2023 season. The Titans were obviously ready for a change of course nevertheless.

Additionally, keep in mind that the running back franchise tag is worth $12,109,200. In light of this, the Titans’ choice to forego tagging Henry suggests that they would like to see him go undrafted this month.

Anticipatory agreements sometimes arise before free agents’ official signing dates of March 13, which coincide with their eligibility to interact with organizations on March 11 and March 13. Henry’s whereabouts are still unknown. Given his career stage, it’s realistic to believe he’ll look for a club that has a chance to make the Super Bowl.

Henry is getting into his thirties, which puts him in the older category of running backs. However, his ability to support a competitor is still noteworthy. Yes, there will be more excellent free agency running backs available. Having said that, Henry is clearly among the best choices.

The Titans’ decision to pass on franchising Derrick Henry is a well-considered step toward sustained success. This tactical change takes several things into account. The Titans may reallocate money to strengthen other roster areas by not taking on a significant contract commitment from Henry. Theoretically, this should strengthen other crucial positions for long-term competitiveness or remedy defensive shortcomings.