The time for the Tennessee Titans to make a decision on a contract extension for 2019 first-round pick and star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons is rapidly approaching.
Simmons is entering the final year of his contract in 2023, but has said he’d prefer to get something done before stepping on the field next season, and understandably so, as Big Jeff wants to protect himself for the long haul.
The good news is, Simmons is optimistic about his future in Tennessee after a positive meeting with new general manager Ran Carthon.
“We had a great talk, and him saying I am one of his priorities, that meant a lot,” Simmons said. “I feel like he is the person for this job. There’s not much I can say especially with talk of the contract — my (agent) is handling that. But whenever we get to that point — I feel very confident that I’ll be here in Tennessee, and I want to be in Tennessee. So, we’ll see how that goes.”
Whenever Simmons does get paid, it’s going to be substantial, as he’s one of the best players at his position in the sport.
Spotrac estimates an extension that pays Simmons $21.5 million per year, which would rank second among defensive linemen. Of course, Los Angeles Rams superstar Aaron Donald lands at No. 1, coming in at $31.6 million.
Simmons isn’t the only young stud interior defender up for an extension, as the New York Giants’ Dexter Lawrence and New York Jets’ Quinnen Williams are also up for hefty deals.
While down at the Super Bowl this week, Kansas City Chiefs star defensive lineman Chris Jones, who ranks third in annual average at the position, is rooting for the trio to make big bucks this offseason.
“I hope those guys blow the market out,” Jones said, per the New York Post’s Ryan Dunleavy. “They have been playing outstanding for their organizations. Dexter Lawrence did an amazing job this year. Jeffery Simmons has been a stud for years. Quinnen Williams, what he’s done in New York with his snaps is ridiculous. I think those guys will deserve a payday. I hope they reset the market and keep it going. That’s what it’s all about.”
I continue to believe Simmons will be in Nashville for the long haul, and especially after his conversation with Carthon, but I thought the same about A.J. Brown before he was dealt, so never say never.
The last thing Tennessee can afford is to bungle this situation like the team did with Brown. Thankfully, the man responsible for that decision is no longer here.
