The Tennessee Titans are stepping into a fresh chapter under the leadership of head coach Robert Saleh. With a bold approach in NFL free agency, they've added several key players on both sides of the ball. A unique strategy has emerged in their contract negotiations this offseason, shedding light on how they’re managing costs effectively.
Titans insider Paul Kuharsky revealed that the team is heavily incorporating bonuses tied to player availability in their free agent contracts. According to Kuharsky, out of 15 contracts with known guaranteed money details, 14 include these availability-based incentives.
These per-game bonuses reward players with extra cash simply for suiting up each week. The idea is straightforward: if a player is on the field, they earn more.
However, if injuries keep them sidelined, those bonuses slip away. While many NFL teams dabble with per-game incentives, the Titans are leading the charge by applying them more extensively than anyone else.
It might not drastically cut costs, but it certainly helps manage the financials more efficiently.
Titans GM Mike Borgonzi, drawing from his experience with the Chiefs, acknowledged that per-game bonuses were part of his previous team's strategy as well. However, what sets Tennessee apart is their aggressive use of these bonuses in free agency, applying them to the majority of new contracts.
This innovative approach by the Titans could set a trend in the league. Watching how much they save during the 2026 season will be intriguing, as they navigate this new financial landscape with a focus on player availability.