​One of the most notable moves the Tennessee Titans made this offseason was finalizing a record-breaking contract extension for defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, elevating him to the status of the highest-paid interior defensive lineman in NFL history. Coming off a standout career season, Simmons clearly earned the new deal, and there’s even a sense that, if head coach Robert Saleh has his way, those numbers could rise again in 2026. Simmons has long been a cornerstone of the Titans’ defense, yet he hasn’t always played within a system or alongside enough talent to unleash his full potential. Now, with a fresh scheme and Saleh’s emphasis on keeping him fresh, Simmons could become an even more disruptive force.
As ESPN’s Turron Davenport notes, the combination of a new scheme and the added emphasis on preserving Simmons’ energy could unlock greater impact from the veteran lineman. “The whole point of the rotation is to make sure that Jeffrey Simmons is ready for that one-on-one when we need it,” Saleh explained during minicamp. “Third down, two-minute situations—keep him fresh, ready to roll, and prepared to exert every last fiber in his body to win that one-on-one. That’s the real purpose behind it.” The rotation is designed to ensure Simmons is at his peak during the most crucial moments, maximizing his impact without burning him out.
In addition to the scheme adjustments, Simmons can draw extra motivation from how he was ranked and perceived league-wide. The NFL Top 100 list’s treatment of him was less than flattering in the eyes of many observers, a factor that could intensify his drive as he heads into camp. When you couple that personal motivation with the improved supporting cast around him, the stage is set for Simmons to elevate his production even further. A deeper rotation and improved personnel around him could free him to attack with less double-team pressure and create more one-on-one opportunities that showcase his playmaking ability.
Of course, nothing is guaranteed, and predicting exact outcomes remains speculative. However, the combination of a refreshed scheme, a strategic rotation designed to preserve his legs, and a surrounding upgrade in talent creates real potential for Simmons to deliver an even more impactful season in 2026. If he can translate the scheme and rest management into sustained dominance, the Titans may witness a notable step forward as a defense and organization as a whole.
This analysis originally appeared on Titans Wire under the title: Could Titans’ Jeffery Simmons make an even bigger impact in 2026?