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The Tennessee Titans and Defensive Tackle Jeffery Simmons are in discussions regarding a long-term contract extension, according to ESPN reporter Dan Graziano,
Simmons, who was a first-round pick in 2019, has been a dominant force for the Titans defense over the past two seasons, tallying 16 sacks and 30 quarterback hits.
Simmons’ Performance
Jeffery Simmons has been a standout performer for the Titans since entering the league in 2019 as the 19th overall pick in the Draft.
Despite missing the first part of his rookie season due to injury, he made an immediate impact upon his return, registering 2 sacks and 32 tackles in just 9 games. He continued to build on that success in 2020 and 2021, accumulating a total of 16 sacks and 30 quarterback hits over the two seasons. His production has been particularly impressive given that he primarily lines up as an interior defensive lineman, where sacks and hits are more difficult to come by.
Potential Impact of a Long-Term Deal
Simmons is currently set to play out the 2023 season on his fifth-year option, which is valued at $10.753 million. However, it is clear that he has outperformed that number, and the Titans are keen to keep him in Nashville for the long-term. If the two parties are able to agree on a new contract, it would likely involve a significant pay raise for Simmons.
From the team’s perspective, locking up Simmons with a long-term deal would provide stability and continuity along the defensive line. The Titans have struggled to generate consistent pass rush in recent years, and Simmons’ ability to disrupt the pocket from the interior has been a key factor in their success. By securing him for the foreseeable future, they would be able to build around him and potentially address other areas of need on defense.
For Simmons, a long-term deal would provide financial security and peace of mind. As one of the premier young defensive linemen in the league, he is likely to command a sizable contract, and a long-term extension would ensure that he is compensated fairly for his performance. It would also allow him to focus on his on-field production without the distraction of contract negotiations looming in the background.