The Tennessee Titans made some massive changes to their roster during the offseason. Some of the position groups will look completely different from what they did in 2024, and at this point, the jury is out on whether or not those changes will make a difference in 2025.

One of those areas that saw a major upheaval was the inside linebacker position. Tennessee completely dismantled the unit, and the results of that overhaul are still a complete unknown. They parted ways with four players who had played significant roles in 2024, and will have a different set of starters when they kick off the season in Denver. 

How does this new group of linebackers, led by free agency acquisition Cody Barton, rank in comparison to the rest of the NFL? Well, Dalton Wasserman of Pro Football Focus (PFF) breaks it down and has a bleak outlook for the new-look unit heading into training camp. 

32. Tennessee Titans

Five Tennessee linebackers played at least 200 snaps last season, and none returned to the team this offseason. Veteran Cody Barton arrives from Denver after posting a solid 76.9 PFF run-defense grade last season. Otis Reese IV, James Williams, and Cedric Gray will compete for playing time, but those three combined to play just 247 snaps last season.

This overview by Wasserman is a mixed bag. Yes, the Titans have a very young linebacking corps and head into the season with a huge unknown next to Barton because of the lack of experience held by Reese, Williams, and Gray. However, all three made plays when given the opportunity in 2024 after injuries ravaged the unit. All three of those young linebackers are talented and bring different skill sets to the defense, and all could be upgrades once allowed to shine. 

In 2024, the linebacker unit was considered one of the deeper units on the roster, with young players behind established veterans. Unfortunately, due to injuries and uneven on-field performance, the linebackers struggled to find consistency.

At this point in the offseason, there are still some valuable linebackers on the open market, and the Titans could add to the unit if deemed necessary, but will likely wait until pads go on during training camp before making any rash decisions. 

Even with all of the changes and unknowns with the unit, coming in at No. 32 feels low. Barton is coming off a strong season with the Denver Broncos and has looked good leading the unit during offseason workouts. The youth movement next to him adds some athleticism that the defense lacked in 2024.

This ranking is subject to change once the season begins.