The Tennessee Titans made the decision to appoint a defensive minded head coach in Robert Saleh. Saleh hired Gus Bradley to be his defensive coordinator. Together, they’ll apply the teachings the head coach plans
to install on that side of the ball.
Saleh will be the defensive play-caller. His history as the former New York Jets head coach and San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator has taught us about his preferred philosophies. Linebackers are dynamic assets in his defense, he appreciates a pass-rushing interior lineman, and values speed/athleticism at EDGE.
The Titans’ roster desperately requires improving this offseason. As it stands, who are the defensive chess-pieces Saleh could build his defensive scheme around? We’ve identified a small handful.
Jeffery Simmons
Saleh has coached some phenomenal defensive players throughout his career, but Jeffery Simmons will rank near the top. Don’t expect Simmons’ role to change much under Saleh. He’s coming off an All-Pro and Bowl year as a dominant pass rusher who registered a career-high 11.0 sacks.
Simmons has established himself as an elite pass-rushing three-technique. Saleh’s defense will be built around how Simmons wrecks opposing offenses. He is the core foundational star moving forward.
Cedric Gray
Saleh has developed several linebackers throughout his coaching career, including Fred Warner, Jamien Sherwood, and Quincy Williams. That’s terrific news for third-year linebacker Cedric Gray. Gray is coming off a breakout season in which he accumulated 164 tackles.
Saleh will ask Gray to play an aggressive brand of football. The former North Carolina standout will be tasked with shedding blocks as a run defender. Gray could improve in zone coverage, as Saleh’s defense demands his linebackers to be instinctual around the middle of the field.
Kevin Winston Jr.
Sophomore safety Kevin Winston Jr. is a potential breakout star. Winston was excellent when healthy for the Titans in 2026, coming up with 34 tackles and a sack in 10 appearances. He should be thrilled about Saleh’s arrival.
Saleh wants physicality and instincts at safety. Winston (and Amani Hooker) check multiple boxes.
Notably absent are defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat, and any cornerback/EDGE on the roster. Sweat’s fit in Saleh’s defense is questionable and to be determined based on previous history. Elsewhere, the Titans desperately need upgrades at cornerback and EDGE for Saleh to legitimize the defense.
