The Tennessee Titans have taken their first major step into a new era by hiring Robert Saleh as their next head coach. It’s a move that brings a defensive identity back to Nashville and gives the franchise a much-needed reset after a tough 2025 season. But while Saleh’s arrival is a big headline, the real work begins now: rebuilding a roster that was, by most measures, one of the league’s least talented last year.
Let’s be clear-no coach, not even one with Saleh’s pedigree, can turn things around without significant roster upgrades. The Titans need help across the board, especially at premium positions.
And while it’s unlikely they can fix everything in one offseason, there are a few key areas where they can make immediate progress. One of the biggest?
Surrounding young quarterback Cam Ward with more offensive firepower.
If the Titans want to give Ward a better chance to succeed without breaking the bank in free agency, there’s one name that makes a lot of sense: Jauan Jennings.
Why Jauan Jennings Makes Sense for the Titans
Jennings checks a lot of boxes for Tennessee-not just from a football standpoint, but from a cultural and community one too. He’s a Middle Tennessee native, a former quarterback at Blackman High School in Murfreesboro, and a Tennessee Volunteer through and through. Bringing him home would be a full-circle moment that could also help reenergize a fan base that’s been drifting in recent years.
But this isn’t just about nostalgia. Jennings has quietly built a solid NFL career after being selected in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft-217th overall.
That’s a long shot to even make a roster, let alone stick around and contribute. But Jennings has done more than just hang on.
He’s delivered.
After carving out a larger role with the 49ers in 2024, Jennings has posted 1,618 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns over his last 30 regular season games. That’s not WR1 production, but it’s rock-solid for a third option-especially one who thrives in high-leverage moments.
And let’s not forget what he did on the biggest stage: Super Bowl 58. Jennings caught a touchdown and threw another one in that game, nearly earning MVP honors in a losing effort. That’s the kind of clutch performance that sticks with you.
What Jennings Brings to the Field
Jennings isn’t flashy, but he’s the kind of receiver every team needs. He’s physical, reliable, and brings serious toughness to the position.
He’s a willing blocker, a third-down specialist, and someone who consistently shows up in the biggest moments. His ceiling might be capped-he’s not going to stretch the field or rack up 1,200 yards-but his floor is incredibly high.
You know what you’re getting every week.
Durability is another big plus. Since 2021, Jennings has only missed 10 games. That kind of availability matters, especially to a front office led by GM Mike Borgonzi, who’s shown a clear preference for dependable veterans in free agency.
For a Titans wide receiver room that’s currently thin on both talent and experience, Jennings would be an immediate upgrade. He brings a level of consistency and professionalism that would benefit both Cam Ward and the locker room as a whole.
The Contract Conversation
Now, let’s talk money. Jennings had a bit of a contract standoff with the 49ers before the 2025 season, and he’ll be looking for a new deal this offseason.
Some projections have him landing a contract in the ballpark of three years, $60 million-with around $20 million per year. That might sound steep at first glance, especially for a player with just two seasons over 600 receiving yards.
But in today’s wide receiver market? That number isn’t as wild as it used to be.
Look at Jakobi Meyers, who signed a similar deal recently-three years, $60 million with $40 million guaranteed. Meyers has more production over a longer span, but Jennings is younger and has less tread on the tires. A comparable contract with around $30 million guaranteed would give the Titans an out before year three, while still locking in a player who can help immediately.
And again, this wouldn’t be a splashy move-it would be a smart one. Jennings wouldn’t be brought in to be the guy.
He’d be part of a broader effort to build a more balanced, functional offense around Ward. He’s someone Saleh is familiar with, someone who fits the culture the Titans are trying to build, and someone who can produce from Day 1.
Bottom Line
The Titans aren’t one move away from contention. This is a full-scale rebuild, and it’s going to take time.
But smart, calculated signings like Jauan Jennings can help accelerate the process. He’s a reliable, physical receiver who brings toughness, consistency, and local ties-all things this franchise could use right now.
If the price is right, Jennings could be a foundational piece in Tennessee’s next chapter.