Here’s a bold statement: the Tennessee Titans are making moves that could reshape their defensive lineup, and Jermaine Johnson II is at the heart of it all. But here’s where it gets controversial—is Johnson’s public recruitment of a high-profile free agent a stroke of genius or a risky gamble? Let’s dive in.
The Titans recently acquired Jermaine Johnson II in a blockbuster trade with the New York Jets, sending nose tackle T'Vondre Sweat the other way. This move reunites Johnson with familiar faces in Tennessee, including head coach Robert Saleh and defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton, who played pivotal roles in his development during his time in East Rutherford. Even assistant defensive line coach Tanzel Smart was once Johnson’s teammate in New York. And this is the part most people miss—Johnson isn’t just settling into his new role; he’s actively recruiting another big name to join him.
Taking to social media, Johnson tagged defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers on Twitter/X with a cryptic yet telling caption: “Next Wednesday coming soon.” For those in the know, this is a clear reference to the start of NFL free agency on March 11. The Titans have been heavily linked to signing Franklin-Myers, and Johnson’s public overture adds fuel to the fire.
Here’s the kicker: Johnson and Franklin-Myers were teammates with the Jets for two seasons (2022-23), and both were coached by Saleh and Whitecotton during that time. Tanzel Smart, now coaching in Nashville, was also part of those defensive lines. This shared history could make a reunion in Tennessee incredibly appealing for Franklin-Myers. After a slow start to his NFL career, Franklin-Myers blossomed under Saleh’s guidance, recording six sacks in 2021 and another five in 2022—Johnson’s rookie year. There’s no denying that Franklin-Myers was one of Johnson’s early mentors in the league, and the idea of them reuniting on another Saleh-Whitcotton-led defensive line feels almost inevitable.
But let’s pause for a moment. Is this a no-brainer, or are there potential pitfalls? While the Titans’ defense could undoubtedly benefit from Franklin-Myers’ proven reliability, especially alongside Jeffery Simmons, it’s worth asking: Are they placing too much faith in past connections? Saleh currently relies heavily on unproven edge rushers like Femi Oladejo and Jaylen Harrell, and Franklin-Myers would certainly address that gap. However, is nostalgia enough to guarantee success on the field?
The Jets’ defense was never their weak point under Saleh and Whitecotton, and rebuilding a dominant defensive line in Tennessee—one that reunites Johnson and Franklin-Myers—could be a masterstroke. Johnson’s social media activity makes it clear he’s all in. But what do you think? Is this a smart move, or are the Titans banking too much on old relationships? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark differing opinions.
