The Tennessee Titans' defense is quickly taking on the unmistakable identity of head coach Robert Saleh—and the transformation is happening fast. With the 2026 player acquisition cycle now essentially complete (save for a few veteran additions that may trickle in through training camp), it's the perfect time to evaluate how general manager Mike Borgonzi has reshaped the roster. Let's break down which defensive position groups have seen the biggest upgrades on paper, from the start of last season to today.
Cornerback: The Biggest Weakness Addressed in a Massive Way
If there was one area that screamed for help, it was cornerback. The 2025 season started with L'Jarius Sneed, Roger McCreary, and Jarvis Brownlee Jr.—but that trio barely lasted. Sneed's body failed him again, Brownlee was traded within the first month, and McCreary was dealt before the deadline. For the majority of the year, the Titans' coverage ability was prohibitively bad, and expectations sank to basically zero.
Borgonzi responded by spending big in free agency. The new-look cornerback room features Alontae Taylor and Cor'Dale Flott on the outside—expensive additions that should bring much-needed stability. Marcus Harris slides into the slot, where he's at his best. The depth includes Josh Williams, Micah Robinson, and Erick Hallett. This is a group that went from a glaring liability to a potential strength in one offseason.
Defensive Line: Big Changes Up Front
The defensive line also saw significant investment. The Titans have reshaped their front seven to match Saleh's aggressive, gap-penetrating scheme. While the exact personnel comparisons from 2025 to 2026 are still coming into focus, the early returns suggest a unit that will be more disruptive and harder to block. The addition of veteran presence and young talent up front signals a clear commitment to winning in the trenches.
Sneaky Big Needs Remain
Despite the upgrades, there are still areas that could use attention. The linebacker corps and safety positions haven't seen the same level of overhaul, and depth remains a concern at certain spots. But for a defense that was one of the league's worst in 2025, the trajectory is undeniably upward. The Titans are building a unit that can compete—and with Saleh's fingerprints all over it, the identity is becoming clear.
Stay tuned for the offensive version of this breakdown, coming soon. But for now, the message is simple: Tennessee's defense is no longer a pushover. It's a work in progress, but the foundation is being laid in a hurry.