The Tennessee Titans released defensive tackle Jaleel Johnson about 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday evening.
Approximately two and a half hours later, Johnson blasted the Titans on social media, blaming both the front office and the players for the team’s current 3-7 record and last-place finish in the AFC South. (Warning: strong language)
Johnson’s words, while contentious, are not untrue.
Tennessee’s greatest offseason additions were on defense — edge rusher Arden Key, middle linebacker Azeez Al-Shair, and cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting — but the team’s major areas of need on offense (tackle, guard) were neglected.
The Titans signed left tackle Andre Dillard, but he’s been the offensive line’s worst liability. The only free-agent signing who has had an impact on offense is receiver DeAndre Hopkins.
In another tweet, Johnson appeared to take a final blow at the Titans coaching staff, invoking former All-Pro safety Kevin Byard, who was dealt nearly four weeks ago to the first-place Philadelphia Eagles.
Byard told reporters last week that, while he would have preferred to retire as a Titan, he is delighted the franchise sent him to a club with a chance to win a Super Bowl.
Johnson, 29, deleted the tweets minutes later and wrote another, saying he will miss playing in Tennessee. Johnson played 91 defensive snaps with the Titans this season, earning 12 tackles, six run stops, one pressure, and one hurry.
After playing for the Minnesota Vikings (2018-20), Houston Texans (2021-22), and Atlanta Falcons (2022), he joined the Titans this season.
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