The Denver Broncos excelled in the 2024 NFL season, achieving a 10-7 record and securing a playoff berth, their first since 2015. The defense was a standout, ranking high in multiple statistical categories: eighth in takeaways (25), seventh in yards allowed per game (317.1), third in points allowed (18.3), and leading the league with 63 sacks.

Key defenders included safety Brandon Jones, who had an impressive Pro Football Focus grade of 84.8, while cornerback Pat Surtain II closely followed at 83.8. Other notable performances came from outside linebacker Nik Bonitto (78.7) and defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers (78.3). Meanwhile, the team had its struggles, with defensive end Jordan Jackson and linebacker Justin Strnad receiving significantly lower grades at 41.3 and 49.9, respectively. Overall, the defense's robust performance played a crucial role in the Broncos' success this season.

Cody Barton has emerged as a standout during the Tennessee Titans' offseason, proving to be a pivotal addition to their linebacker corps. After a solid season in Denver, Barton's vocal leadership and playmaking ability have made a significant impression in minicamps, where he notably intercepted the top draft pick, Cameron Ward, twice. His presence aims to address past deficiencies in coverage and positioning that plagued the Titans' defense, particularly in the inside linebacker role. With the team undergoing a transition and Barton prepared to mentor younger counterparts, he is poised to play a crucial role in their success.

The Tennessee Titans are wrapping up their final offseason minicamp, gearing up for a competitive training camp later this summer. With a focus on roster improvement, particularly aiming to shore up the linebacker position, they have the salary cap flexibility to make moves ahead of the season. Head coach Brian Callahan acknowledged the ongoing competition for the starting spot alongside Cody Barton, hinting at interest in former Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt, recently released and familiar to him from their time together at Cincinnati.

Callahan emphasized that while the minicamp signals a pause in on-field activities, the team's management will remain proactive in evaluating potential additions to strengthen their lineup. The Titans are prepared to leverage their current salary cap situation, which allows them to consider contracts that could enhance their defensive prowess.

The Tennessee Titans are grappling with an ongoing dilemma at the linebacker position, marked by a troubling trend of frequent roster changes since November 2022. Despite considerable efforts, including high-profile signings and draft investments, the Titans have yet to find a reliable partner for Cody Barton at inside linebacker. Currently, Cedric Gray and James Williams, both second-year players, lead the competition despite their limited playing time. Coach Frank Bush acknowledges the critical nature of the position and the need for improvement as they prepare for the upcoming training camp.

The statistics reveal a staggering turnover in the linebacker ranks, with a list of 21 individuals participating in the competition over a single season. This level of instability raises concerns about the team's defensive capabilities, especially in run defense. With training camp on the horizon, the Titans are hopeful that Gray and Williams can mature into the steadfast contributors needed to stabilize the defense alongside the experienced Barton.

The Tennessee Titans have been active this offseason, driven by a new front office under general manager Mike Borgonzi. After a disappointing 2024 season, they have made significant roster changes, targeting key positions for improvement. Notable acquisitions include offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. and linebacker Cody Barton, both of whom were signed to bolster the team's lineup. The Titans also drafted quarterback Cam Ward as the first overall pick, aiming to spark their offense with fresh talent.

Despite these efforts, Pro Football Focus (PFF) has given the Titans a C+ grade, indicating mixed feelings about the overall offseason moves. While the addition of Ward is seen as a positive, the overall draft strategy has been criticized for lacking value. The Titans’ new direction is promising, but analysts suggest that the effectiveness of these changes will need time to manifest on the field.