Hot Takes on Titans Free Agents: Arguments For, Against Re-signing Defensive End Denico Autry

Edge defender Denico Autry had a career year for the Tennessee Titans in 2023, but he turns 34 this offseason and there are arguably better, younger free agents who could be signed at a similar price tag.

NASHVILLE — Defensive end Denico Autry, the Tennessee Titans' 2023 leader in quarterback sacks and pressures, is one of 24 pending free agents. Should general manager Ran Carthon re-sign him or let him go?

First, let's take a look at some of Autry's career highlights.

• 59 career sacks, including a career-high 12 last season; and
• seven forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries 

Here are the arguments.

No. Let him go

Autry turns 34 this offseason and there arguably are better free agents available at a reasonable price.

Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranks Autry as the 12th-best edge rusher on the free agent market and 64th-best available player overall. PFF projects that Autry could sign a 1-year contract for $7.25 million. 

But then there's the Miami Dolphins' Andrew Van Ginkel, who had a 91.1 player grade, seventh-best among all edge defenders. PFF believes that Van Ginkel could be had for two years at $6.5 million per season. Also, Van Ginkel is five years younger.

For a couple million dollars more than Autry, the Titans might buy pass rusher-for-hire Jadeveon Clowney, who had 11 quarterback sacks and 78 total pressures in 2023. PFF says Clowney could command a 1-year deal at $9 million.

This is a no-brainer: better players for a few dollars more? Let Autry go.

Yes. Keep him

It's fair to have concerns about Autry's age (33), but last season was one of the best of his career. 

Autry set career highs in sacks (12), quarterback hits (17), tackles (50), and solo tackles (30), and was one off his career-high in tackles for loss (12).

Autry is widely regarded as one of the game's most effective defensive ends in the 5 technique, in which he lines up on the offensive tackle's outside shoulder. He can split double teams by lowering his shoulder and pushing through blocks with sheer force. Moreover, he is an astute player who capitalizes on a blocker's momentum to propel himself forward and come closer to the quarterback. Autry remains a formidable force on the field.

Autry has recorded eight or more sacks in all three seasons with the Titans. 

Ultimately, a team can never have too many pass-rushers and Autry has demonstrated that he can have an impact. If Carthon and head coach Brian Callahan feel there's gas left in the tank, they should re-sign Autry. 

NFL teams can begin signing free agents on March.

What should the Titans do about Denico Autry? Tweet us at @alltitansSIFN.

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