Just when it looked like Malcolm Butler would be the end of the Titans spending spree they made another splash. The Titans signed another former Patriot in running back Dion Lewis. Mike Vrabel‘s connection to the Patriots has already paid dividends and he hasn’t even run an official practice yet. Dion Lewis is a major coup given the Titans’ goal of revamping the offense to suit fourth-year quarterback Marcus Mariota.
The Titans parted ways with veteran back DeMarco Murray and were expected to turn the backfield completely to Derrick Henry. Henry is going to be the primary ball carrier but the Dion Lewis offers more than merely spelling Henry.
In New England, he proved to be valuable catching passes out of the backfield. This means that offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur will now have two players to serve the role Todd Gurley served for him in Los Angeles.
Dion Lewis’s contract is reportedly for four years and $20 million dollars. That’s a bargain considering all he offers. Mariota now has two backs that he can use in play action and as receiving options. Add that to second-year receiver Corey Davis, and veterans Rishard Matthews, and tight end Delanie Walker and all of a sudden the Titans offense has some firepower. They perhaps have the best overall offense in the AFC South. Houston has Deshaun Watson and DeAndre Hopkins but a lot of questions otherwise. Jacksonville’s offense is in flux and the Colts are rebuilding.
Now the Titans can focus their draft on adding pass rushers and interior linemen. They can also add to their offense by picking up a veteran receiver. Many expected Tennessee to use a late round pick to add another running back but now they have Dion Lewis. After staying out of the frenzy in the early stages, the Titans have shown the league they’re ready to compete in the AFC.