Titans and NFL Free Agency: Arguments for, against Signing Veteran Tackle Tyron Smith

Every team could use an 8-time Pro Bowler on their offensive line. Then again, should the Tennessee Titans risk millions on a 33-year-old free agent with a recent history of injuries? That's the story of offensive tackle Tyron Smith.

NASHVILLE — Starting March 13, the Tennessee Titans can sign NFL free agents and begin to address some of their biggest position needs. One option could be left tackle Tyron Smith, a perennial all-star in 13 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys.

Should the Titans pursue one of the best offensive linemen of his generation? Or should they look for someone younger than 33 years and 161 games old?

First, here are some of Smith's career highlights. 

• Five All-Pro Team selections, including two first team.
• Eight Pro-Bowls in 13 seasons.
• Made NFL's 2010’s All-Decade team.

Here are the arguments:

No. Spend the money elsewhere

The clock is ticking for Tyron Smith. The relentless pounding of professional football is particularly hard on linemen.

Smith has dealt with neck, back, knee, ankle, hamstring, and elbow injuries. 

He has missed 33 games from 2020 through 2022, and he turns 34 at the end of the 2024 season.

Yes! Sign the man

Did you see those career highlights?

Smith played in 14 games last season and had a Pro Football Focus rating of 83.7,  fourth-best among all tackles. Despite his recent injury record, Smith remains one of the top tackles in the league and would provide an immediate upgrade for the Titans. 

Investing $10 million for one year of Tyron Smith would be worthwhile. New Titans offensive line coach Bill Callahan could use the help to improve a group that ranked in the bottom third of the league in several critical metrics. 

Related Titans stories

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• COUNTDOWN TO FREE AGENCY: The Tennessee Titans have nearly $70 million in effective salary cap space to begin addressing critical needs — offensive line, the passing game, and the defensive secondary. A couple wide receivers, Tee Higgins and Mike Evans, are reportedly off the board. CLICK HERE