Day 1 of the Tennessee Titans’ NFL free agency deals: Does Dan Moore solve the team’s offensive line problems?
On the first day of the 2025 NFL free agency period, the Tennessee Titans made a significant move to address their offensive line issues by signing left tackle Dan Moore Jr. to a four-year, $82 million contract, with $50 million guaranteed.
This strategic acquisition aims to bolster a unit that struggled considerably during the 2024 season, conceding 52 sacks—ranking among the league’s highest.
The pressing question now is whether Moore’s addition will effectively resolve the Titans’ offensive line woes.
Dan Moore Jr.’s Professional Trajectory
Dan Moore Jr., a 26-year-old offensive tackle, entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021, following a collegiate career at Texas A&M. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 315 pounds, Moore has been a durable presence, starting all 66 games over his four seasons with the Steelers.
His consistent availability underscores his physical resilience, a trait highly valued in the demanding role of an offensive lineman.
Performance Metrics and Areas of Concern
Despite his durability, Moore’s performance metrics have raised concerns. In the 2024 season, he allowed a career-high 12 sacks and 41 pressures, earning a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 67.2, which ranked 46th among offensive tackles.
These statistics highlight challenges in pass protection, a critical area for the Titans, especially considering their offensive struggles in the previous season.
Financial Implications of the Signing
The Titans’ investment in Moore is substantial, with his average annual salary of $20.5 million positioning him among the top-paid left tackles in the NFL.
This financial commitment reflects the organization’s urgency to rectify offensive line deficiencies. However, it also places significant expectations on Moore to elevate his performance to match his compensation.
Strategic Reconfiguration of the Offensive Line
Moore’s arrival facilitates a strategic shift for the Titans. JC Latham, the team’s first-round pick in the 2024 draft, initially played left tackle but will now transition to the right side—a position he manned during his tenure at Alabama.
This realignment aims to optimize the skill sets of both players, potentially enhancing overall line cohesion.
Comparative Analysis with Other Free Agency Moves
The Titans’ aggressive approach mirrors trends observed in other franchises. The New England Patriots, for instance, have embarked on a $282 million free agency spending spree, focusing on defensive enhancements.
Similarly, the Kansas City Chiefs addressed offensive line concerns by signing tackle Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million deal.
These moves underscore a league-wide emphasis on fortifying line play, reflecting its critical impact on both offensive efficiency and quarterback protection.
Projected Impact on the Titans’ Offensive Line
Integrating Moore into the Titans’ offensive line is anticipated to yield several benefits:
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Enhanced Pass Protection: Moore’s experience is expected to stabilize the left tackle position, potentially reducing the frequency of sacks and pressures allowed.
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Run Game Improvement: A more robust offensive line can facilitate better run blocking, creating opportunities for the Titans’ running backs to exploit defenses effectively.
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Quarterback Development: Improved protection is crucial for quarterback performance, offering more time for decision-making and reducing the risk of injuries.
Considerations and Potential Challenges
While Moore’s signing addresses a critical need, several factors warrant consideration:
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Performance Consistency: Moore’s previous struggles in pass protection necessitate focused coaching and development to ensure he meets the elevated expectations associated with his contract.
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Line Cohesion: The effectiveness of the offensive line hinges on the seamless integration of its members. The transition of Latham to right tackle and the incorporation of Moore require time and coordination to develop optimal synergy.
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Financial Flexibility: The substantial investment in Moore may limit the Titans’ ability to address other roster needs, necessitating prudent salary cap management to maintain overall team competitiveness.