The Tennessee Titans haven’t had much to celebrate in recent seasons. A series of questionable roster decisions and draft misfires by former general managers Jon Robinson and Ran Carthon left the team searching for direction. But amidst the turbulence, one move stands out as a clear success: Robinson’s selection of Jeffery Simmons with the 19th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.
Despite being drafted while recovering from a torn ACL, Simmons quickly became a cornerstone of Tennessee’s defense. Over six NFL seasons, he’s earned three Pro Bowl selections and has been named Second-Team All-Pro twice a rare level of consistency and dominance for a defensive lineman who has played through multiple coaching and front office changes.
On Tuesday, the Titans received a major boost regarding Simmons’ health and preparation for the 2025 season. The star defensive tackle returned to minicamp in visibly improved shape, reportedly having dropped about 20 pounds. Now down to 301 lbs, Simmons said the weight loss is part of a plan to increase his quickness and stamina—both crucial for his goal of raising his sack totals after a relatively quiet 2024 campaign.
“I don’t want to just affect the quarterback anymore,” Simmons said. “I want to sack the quarterback. That’s the difference this year.”
Head coach Brian Callahan, who is overseeing a culture reset in Tennessee, praised Simmons’ leadership and conditioning. While Simmons had previously opted to skip organized team activities, he returned for minicamp looking like a player ready to anchor the franchise’s defensive identity once again.
As the Titans prepare for training camp and look to rebound from a disappointing stretch, Simmons’ physical transformation and renewed mindset are welcome signs. With the team in transition and young players still developing, Jeffery Simmons remains the heart and soul of Tennessee’s defense and perhaps their best hope of returning to relevance in the AFC South.
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