NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A team lacking star power adds a big one with the trade acquisition of L'Jarius Sneed from Kansas City per Friday night's report from Adam Schefter. I've since confirmed the deal is in place.
The Titans will pair Sneed with Chidobe Awuzie with Roger McCreary as the nickel back, and that might provide the team as good a trio of cornerbacks as it has had in its Nashville history.
They have a chance to unseat Samari Rolle, Denard Walker and Steve Jackson (now Titans' safeties coach) in 1998-99 who I'd currently rate as the best trio of corners. Also in contention: Cortland Finnegan, Jason McCourty and Alterraun Verner in 2010-11.
The Chiefs franchised tagged Sneed guaranteeing him $19.8 million for 2024. He was permitted to seek a trade and get a contract in place and was reported seeking a deal that would make him the NFL's highest-paid corner.
Jordan Schultz reports the four-year deal comes with a $19 million annual average and $55 million guaranteed.
Cleveland's Denzel Ward got $44.5 million fully guaranteed at signing last year, so if Sneed's $55 million is fully guaranteed he will set a new record for the position.
Tennessee gives up a 2025 third-round pick and a 2024 seventh-round pick swap -- not expensive compensation at all. I did not think a third-rounder next year -- the equivalent of a fourth-rounder this year, would be enough.
The Titans played this patiently and got their man even as they started hesitant based on the combination of trade and contract compensation.
In four seasons since the Chiefs picked him in the fourth round out of Louisiana Tech in 2020, he has 10 interceptions and 40 passes defensed as well as 6.5 sacks.
Sneed drew 18 penalty flags last season, second most in the NFL per nfl.penalties.com. Twelve of the penalties were accepted for 97 yards.
Cornerback was a big remaining need on defense and it's big that the Titans not only addressed it but do so with a high-quality player in his prime.
On defense, they still need a second starting inside linebacker, an additional edge rusher, a safety who can at least compete with Elijah Molden and defensive line depth.
Left tackle has to be a priority one and an additional receiver would still be a key addition. Tight end could be a spot they want to improve as well.
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