The Tennessee Titans find themselves in an intriguing position as they head into the 2026 NFL season. With some salary-cap space to play with, they have the opportunity to address their most pressing issue: finding a reliable veteran receiver who can thrive against press coverage and man-to-man defense.
While the idea of adding a deep threat like Alec Pierce has been floated, it doesn’t quite tackle the core problem. The Titans need someone who can consistently get open, especially when the pressure is on. Enter the possibility of signing a seasoned pro like Evans.
Quarterback Cam Ward, entering his second year, needs a dependable target who can make plays quickly. Last season, Ward often found himself scrambling under pressure, lacking a receiver who could consistently beat one-on-one coverage. According to insights from ESPN, the Titans' current top receivers, Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike, are still developing, and the potential departure of Calvin Ridley could leave a gap.
Evans, despite being 33 and having missed significant time in 2025, still shows the ability to physically dominate against press coverage. His experience could be invaluable, not just for Ward, but also in mentoring younger receivers like Ayomanor and Dike. Although his stats from last season weren't his best, Evans' leadership and on-field presence could be exactly what the Titans need.
General Manager Todd Licht has previously expressed admiration for Evans, highlighting his unique contributions to the team. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield echoed this sentiment, noting Evans' ability to elevate the performance of those around him.
For the Titans, bringing in Evans would be a strategic move to help Ward develop into the franchise quarterback they hope he can become. Ward showed promise in his rookie season, especially after the Week 10 bye, when he threw for the majority of his touchdowns. With the right support, the Titans believe he can take a significant leap forward.
The potential release of Calvin Ridley, due to his hefty cap hit, adds another layer to the decision. If Ridley is let go, the Titans will need to fill that void, and Evans could be the perfect fit.
Additionally, new head coach Saleh is looking to make a strong impression in his first year with the Titans. After a challenging stint with the Jets, he needs to steer the team towards improvement. While the Titans don't necessarily need to hit double-digit wins, showing progress and competitiveness will be crucial.
In summary, signing Evans could be a pivotal move for the Titans, addressing their immediate needs while setting the stage for a more successful season. With the right pieces in place, Tennessee could be poised for a turnaround, making them a team to watch in 2026.