Titans Add Former Chargers OT to Protect Cam Ward

Tennessee signs veteran offensive tackle Austin Deculus to bolster offensive line

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:26am

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The Tennessee Titans have signed former Los Angeles Chargers offensive tackle Austin Deculus to help protect quarterback Cam Ward, who is recovering from a shoulder injury. Deculus, a 27-year-old with 26 career games and six starts, is expected to compete for the swing tackle role behind projected starters JC Latham and Dan Moore. The Titans have made multiple roster moves this offseason, including restructuring Calvin Ridley's contract to free up cap space.

Why it matters

The Titans are looking to bolster their offensive line to protect their starting quarterback Cam Ward, who is recovering from a shoulder injury. Deculus brings experience and depth to the Titans' offensive line as they aim to compete in the 2026 NFL season.

The details

Deculus, a sixth-round pick by the Houston Texans in 2022, has played for multiple teams, including the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints. He started five games for the Chargers last season and has 26 career games and six starts over four NFL seasons. The Titans are hoping Deculus can provide depth and competition at the offensive tackle position as they look to protect Ward and improve their offensive line.

  • Deculus was released by the Texans in 2023 before being brought back to their practice squad.
  • Deculus was elevated from the practice squad twice in 2023 before being signed to the Chargers' active roster in late September.
  • The Titans signed Deculus on March 17, 2026.

The players

Cam Ward

The Tennessee Titans' starting quarterback who is recovering from a shoulder injury.

Austin Deculus

A 27-year-old offensive tackle who has played for the Houston Texans, New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, and Los Angeles Chargers, and is now joining the Tennessee Titans.

JC Latham

One of the Titans' projected starting offensive tackles.

Dan Moore

One of the Titans' projected starting offensive tackles.

Calvin Ridley

A Titans wide receiver whose contract was restructured to free up cap space.

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What they’re saying

“Deculus started five games last season and now becomes the newest OL to be added to the Titans' line.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter (X)

What’s next

The Titans will look to integrate Deculus into their offensive line as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season and aim to protect Cam Ward during his recovery from a shoulder injury.

The takeaway

The Titans' signing of veteran offensive tackle Austin Deculus is a move to bolster their offensive line and protect their starting quarterback Cam Ward as he recovers from a shoulder injury. Deculus brings experience and depth to the Titans' offensive line as they look to compete in the 2026 season.