NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Titans have completely rebuilt their pass-rush unit in seven days, capped by the official arrival of Pro Bowler Jermaine Johnson. The trade, which sent massive nose tackle T’Vondre Sweat to the New York Jets, was processed this week as the new league year kicked off. By swapping a run-stuffer for a high-ceiling edge threat, General Manager Mike Borgonzi has signaled that Tennessee is done waiting for developmental projects to come of age.
Johnson isn’t coming alone. The Titans front office spent the last 48 hours layering the depth chart with veteran experience, signing Jacob Martin to an $11 million deal and adding Malik Herring. They also finalized a trade with the Dallas Cowboys for Solomon Thomas. This aggressive veteran influx suggests a specific philosophy: provide head coach Robert Saleh with immediate, proven “plus” starters to pair with superstar Jeffery Simmons, rather than banking entirely on the upcoming April draft.
The Saleh-Johnson Reunion
This move is about more than just stats; it’s about a scheme match that works. Robert Saleh drafted Johnson 26th overall back in 2022 during his stint with the Jets. After a 2024 season cut short by an Achilles injury, Johnson returned in 2025 to prove his explosion remained intact, recording 43 tackles and 34.5 quarterback hurries. The Titans aren’t just getting a body; they’re getting a 27-year-old in his prime who already speaks the defensive language Saleh is installing in Nashville.
The atmosphere at Saint Thomas Sports Park has shifted from the quiet uncertainty of the 3-14 finish last year to a palpable, aggressive energy. You can feel it in the building. Borgonzi isn’t just adding talent; he’s adding players who have a history with the staff. Herring, for instance, has ties to Borgonzi from their shared time in Kansas City. These aren’t random dart throws. This is a calculated construction of a “Saleh Defense” from the ground up.
“Bringing Jermaine here wasn’t a difficult conversation. He knows how we hunt. He knows the standard. We’re building a front that makes life miserable for quarterbacks, and he is a massive piece of that puzzle.”
— Robert Saleh, Titans Head Coach
Draft Implications: What Happens at No. 4?
Before the trade for Johnson, every mock draft had the Titans locked into an edge rusher with the No. 4 overall pick. That lock has been picked. With Johnson, Martin, and Thomas in the fold, Tennessee now has the flexibility to pivot. This creates a fascinating scenario for quarterback Cam Ward, the 2025 No. 1 overall pick. To maximize Ward’s sophomore jump, the Titans might now look at elite offensive line help or a true WR1 to pair with the young signal-caller.
The roster still has holes at center and off-ball linebacker, but the emergency sirens at the edge position have been silenced. By securing a veteran rotation now, Borgonzi has ensured that whoever the Titans take in the first round doesn’t have to carry the entire franchise on their shoulders from Day 1. The 2026 season was always going to be a rebuild, but today, it looks more like a launchpad.
