The Tennessee Titans have apparently lost their starting right tackle in free agency, as the Cleveland Browns have reportedly agreed to a contract with Jack Conklin.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter has the latest.
This deal is less than what many had projected Conklin to get in free agency, at least in terms of overall value. Per Spotrac, his market value was estimated at a deal of six years and $90 million ($15 million annually), with some projecting him to possibly be the highest-paid offensive lineman.
While an argument could certainly be made against Conklin getting that kind of money, it was thought to be possible considering the demand for quality offensive linemen.
However, it appears this was a strategic contract by Conklin with an eye on the future. The right tackle will now be able to cash in again in a few years when the salary cap is expected to increase significantly.
There will be plenty of critics out there questioning why the Titans weren’t willing to meet what seems like pretty reasonable demands in a contract. This deal is far from outrageous, at least after the first year.
The Titans decided not to pick up Conklin’s fifth-year option, which led to him hitting the open market this offseason. The former No. 8 overall pick had struggled in 2017 and 2018, and dealt with multiple knee issues in the process.
The 25-year-old then turned his career around last season and regained his status as one of the best right tackles in the sport.
