**REPORT: Tennessee Titans Sign 4th-Round Pick Cedric Gray to Rookie Contract**
The Tennessee Titans addressed their need for inside linebackers following the departure of last season’s leading tackler, Azeez Al-Shaair, in free agency. Although they signed Kenneth Murray Jr., concerns remained about the depth and quality at the position, as noted by Justin Melo of Music City Miracles. Melo highlighted the lack of solid starters beyond Murray, with only Jack Gibbens and Otis Reese IV in the mix.
To bolster their linebacker corps, the Titans drafted Cedric Gray 106th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Gray has since signed a four-year rookie contract worth $4.854 million, including an $834,492 signing bonus, according to Aaron Wilson.
Gray had a notable college career at North Carolina, committing as a four-star recruit in 2020. He played 51 games with 37 starts, accumulating 368 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks, five interceptions, 13 pass deflections, and five forced fumbles. In the 2023 season, Gray started all 12 games, recording 121 tackles, 11 TFLs, five sacks, one interception, four pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. He earned high marks for his pass rush (76.8), coverage (78.0), and was named to the All-ACC First Team.
Lance Zierlein of NFL Network evaluated Gray as having strong production, length, and play speed, though he suggested Gray is better suited as a weak-side linebacker. Zierlein noted that Gray’s run fits could be problematic due to a lack of play strength and technique, but praised his disruptive potential when playing aggressively.
The Titans hope Gray’s addition will provide much-needed depth and competition at the linebacker position, enhancing their defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
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