The Tennessee Titans finished the 2015 season tied for the worst record in the NFL at 3-13, but newly acquired General Manager Jon Robinson is looking to build a strong foundation in Tennessee and has already made some moves in free agency to bolster their roster.
The Titans have already signed cornerbacks Brice McCain and Antwon Blake in free agency this offseason, and have now filled a hole left by former safety Michael Griffin who was released last month.
While Griffin ended up signing with the Minnesota Vikings, the Titans landed a talented veteran safety in Rashad Johnson. The former Arizona Cardinals starting free safety has reportedly agreed to a one-year deal to join the Titans, and used his Twitter account today to write, "I'm coming home!"
Johnson - who is from Alabama and played college football for the Crimson Tide - is entering his eighth season in the NFL. The 30-year-old had played his entire NFL career in Arizona, as he was the team's third round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft.
Johnson has been an impact playmaker on the defensive side of the ball in Arizona, and is coming off another productive season in which he recorded 61 combined tackles and five interceptions. The Titans newly acquired safety has recorded 15 interceptions and scored three defensive touchdowns through his first seven seasons in the league, and should have an instant impact on Tennessee's defense in 2016.
The Cardinals had hoped to hang onto the talented safety, but with players like defensive back Tyrann Mathieu scheduled to become a free agent following the 2016 season, Arizona's front office likely had to let Johnson walk.
It's a big signing by the new general manager that brings a presence to the back end of the Titans' defense, but Robinson knows there is still plenty of work to be done before Tennessee is considered a contender. The Titans may have filled one of their needs with Johnson's signing, but still need help on their offensive line, and at the cornerback and defensive end positions.
The Titans have a major decision to make next month with the top pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, and it wouldn't be surprising if they decide to go with an offensive tackle or a pass rusher, as they have clearly focused on bolstering their secondary in free agency this offseason.
