The Tennessee Titans were relatively active during the initial wave of free agency, succeeding in adding to the offensive line, bringing in another quarterback, and adding to the defensive depth. They’ve let a few players go, which was expected, and they’re likely to bring more talent to Nashville before the 2025 NFL draft next month.
USA TODAY’s For the Win predicts that the Titans will sign cornerback Mike Hilton, who is currently a free agent.
The Titans could use an upgrade at the nickel cornerback spot, and Hilton is one of the best in the business. He could follow former Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan to Tennessee.
Hilton joined the NFL in 2016 as an undrafted free agent. He worked hard to get where he is, spending time on practice squads for three different teams before landing a spot on the field. He suited up for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2017-2020 and signed with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2021.
His best season came in 2023 when he recorded 84 tackles (64 solo), two sacks, one fumble recovery, two interceptions, and eight passes defensed. Over his eight years in the NFL, Hilton has steadily improved each season, and while last season wasn’t necessarily better than 2023, he has proven he can get the job done.
The Titans’ secondary is an area of opportunity this offseason, especially after letting Chidobe Awuzie go last week. They have solid players, but not a lot of depth, especially with nickel corners. Roger McCreary held his own in 2024 and is capable, but it wouldn’t be bad to add some depth.
At this point in free agency and with the type of player Hilton is, if the Titans can get him at a good price, he wouldn’t be a bad addition. However, I would be remiss if I did not suggest that the Titans have bigger needs than their secondary.
There is still a lot of work to be done by this front office, and the draft is yet to come, so they need to be smart with who they are bringing in and how they are spending their money.
