The Tennessee Titans made a signing in free agency this offseason that surprised many people.
The team gave former Pittsburgh Steelers’ tackle Dan Moore Jr. a massive four-year, $82 million deal with a whopping $50 million guaranteed. It wasn’t surprising to see the Titans add to the offensive line, but it was surprising to see them give Moore that much money.
After the deal was reported, many pointed out that Moore allowed 12 sacks in 2024, which was the worst mark among all tackles. Thus, it’s easy to question the team’s massive investment considering Moore’s struggles last season.
However, John Glennon of Nashville Post recently spoke with Moore and the lineman defended his 2024 play.
“I’m always looking to get better, regardless of what the numbers say,” Moore said. “I thought I played well last season. The Titans thought I played well last season, and that’s what I’m focused on, getting better. [Titans offensive line coach Bill Callahan] is coaching me up on things that I need to work on, things I can tweak in my game. … all I’m looking forward to is the future.”
As Moore rightfully pointed out, clearly the Titans were impressed enough with his performance.
While the tackle did get pinned with a ton of sacks, his overall grade wasn’t bad. Pro Football Focus gave Moore a 67.2 grade, which ranked 46th out of 140 qualified tackles.
Even though Moore didn’t put up the best season in 2024, the lineman remained remarkably durable and started in all 17 games. The lineman has never played in fewer than 16 games in a season, and that’ll be a huge help for a Titans’ line that has dealt with injuries.
Moore mentioned working with Titans offensive line coach Bill Callahan as well, and if anybody can get the most out of a blocker, it’s Callahan. The legendary coach is considered to be among the best offensive line coaches in the league, and having a full offseason with Moore should produce encouraging results.
“The film I looked at … I mean, the numbers game says I gave up however many sacks,” Moore said. “But you look at technique. You look at the film. I’m in front of defenders, and that’s what I’m focused on doing.”
Clearly, Moore doesn’t doubt his own abilities. It will be interesting to see if the Titans can get the most out of him and make that contract end up looking like a bargain.
Moore will start at left tackle for the Titans while 2024 first-round pick J.C. Latham will move over to the right side. The team also brough in solid veteran guard Kevin Zeitler to further improve one of the weakest lines in the league.
MORE PITTSBURGH STEELERS NEWS
T.J. Watt gets $124 million contract update amid Steelers uncertainty
Steelers’ Kaleb Johnson compares himself to two elite NFL running backs
Will Howard doesn’t mince words about Steelers possibly signing Aaron Rodgers
