The Tennessee Titans are making strategic moves this offseason, focusing on familiar faces for their new head coach, Robert Saleh. Their latest acquisition?
Defensive lineman Solomon Thomas from the Dallas Cowboys. This trade, involving a swap of late-round picks, adds another layer to the Titans' evolving defensive line.
Interestingly, the Cowboys were busy on Wednesday, trading away two defensive tackles within minutes. Alongside Thomas, Osa Odighizuwa was sent to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a third-round pick.
Thomas, who recorded 27 tackles and a pass deflection last season in 16 games, is on a two-year, $6 million deal. He's set to earn $2.5 million in 2026.
Thomas' connection with Saleh dates back to their time with the New York Jets, where Thomas had a standout season in 2023, posting a career-high five sacks. He also reunites with Titans' defensive run game coordinator, Aaron Whitecotton. Drafted as the No. 3 overall pick by the 49ers in 2017, Thomas brings experience with 239 tackles, 18.5 sacks, and 36 tackles for loss over his career.
This move is part of a broader strategy for the Titans, who have already traded for pass rusher Jermaine Johnson II and signed defensive linemen John Franklin-Myers and Jordan Elliott. While Thomas may not be a game-changer at 31, his familiarity with Saleh is a key factor in this decision.
For the Titans, this trade earns a C+ grade. It's primarily about depth, with Jeffery Simmons and JFM expected to start, and Elliott contributing as well. Thomas' role will likely be supportive, but Saleh's trust in him is evident.
This trade also raises questions about the futures of free agents Sebastian Joseph-Day and James Lynch. Joseph-Day, in particular, has been a solid performer with 85 tackles and 4.5 sacks over the past two seasons. Yet, Saleh's preference for players he's coached before is clear this offseason.
On the Cowboys' side, this trade is graded a C. It doesn't free up cap space or bring in significant draft capital.
With Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams, and Otito Ogbonnia anchoring the interior defensive line, Thomas was not seen as essential depth. This move reflects Dallas' confidence in their current roster and their strategic direction moving forward.