Titans Sign Defensive Lineman to Top 10 Free Agent Deal

John Franklin-Myers joins Tennessee to bolster defensive line alongside Jeffery Simmons.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:22pm

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The Tennessee Titans have made several notable free agent signings this offseason, including the addition of defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers. According to NFL.com's Jeffri Chadiha, Franklin-Myers' deal with the Titans ranks as the fourth best free agent signing by any team in this year's cycle.

Why it matters

The Titans are undergoing a rebuild under new head coach Robert Saleh, and the signing of Franklin-Myers is seen as a key move to improve their defensive line and pass rush. Franklin-Myers played under Saleh with the New York Jets and is expected to pair well with star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons.

The details

Franklin-Myers, 29, recorded 7.5 sacks last season and is viewed as a disruptive pass rusher who will make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks. He has significant experience in multiple defensive systems and has playoff experience as well. The Titans are focused on adding veteran talent to their roster as they look to rebuild the franchise's identity under Saleh.

  • Franklin-Myers signed with the Titans in March 2026.

The players

John Franklin-Myers

A 29-year-old defensive lineman who was one of the top free agent signings of the offseason, joining the Tennessee Titans after playing under new Titans head coach Robert Saleh with the New York Jets.

Jeffery Simmons

The star defensive tackle for the Tennessee Titans who requires constant double-teams and will pair with the newly signed John Franklin-Myers to form a formidable defensive line.

Robert Saleh

The new head coach of the Tennessee Titans, who is focused on rebuilding the franchise and has brought in veteran talent like John Franklin-Myers to improve the team.

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What they’re saying

“Franklin-Myers was the best talent in a mediocre crop of interior defensive linemen. That qualifier shouldn't diminish what he brings to the Titans. For one, he played under new Tennessee head coach Robert Saleh when the two were together with the New York Jets. Franklin-Myers also should pair well with fellow Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, who requires constant double-teams.”

— Jeffri Chadiha, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Titans will look to integrate Franklin-Myers into their defensive scheme and see how he performs alongside Jeffery Simmons to improve their pass rush in the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Titans' signing of John Franklin-Myers is a key move in their offseason rebuild under new head coach Robert Saleh. Franklin-Myers' experience playing in Saleh's system and his ability to disrupt the passing game should make him a valuable addition to the Titans' defensive line.