John Franklin-Meyers had options when he entered free agency back in March, but the veteran defensive lineman made it clear Wednesday that his decision to join the Tennessee Titans was much more than a financial decision.
During Wednesday's media availability, JFM elaborated on what got him down in Tennessee. JFM noted his famailarity of the defensive system HC Robert Saleh is using was a key swinging point for him - but also the coaches who surround him. Franklin-Meyers touched on how the intensity of DL coach, Aaron Whitecotton has pushed him to be an even better all around defensive player for this Titans team.
"We got the right head coach, coaching staff, and teammates here, ultimately, we have a chance to win the Super Bowl. The goal is to compete and get better every single day. What is a rebuild? Ain't no rebuild, this is the NFL."
The opportunity to play beside Jeffery Simmons likely strengthened Tennessee’s appeal as well. Rather than facing constant double-teams as the unquestioned centerpiece of a defensive front, Franklin-Myers will join forces with one of the NFL’s premier interior defenders. Tennessee invested heavily to make that pairing happen, signing Franklin-Myers to a three-year, $63 million contract after he recorded 7.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits for Denver last season. His comments offer another indication that the Titans are not merely collecting recognizable names. They are building around players who already believe in Saleh’s philosophy and understand the physical standard his defense requires. For John Franklin-Myers, Tennessee provided the right coaches, the right scheme and the chance to help establish a new identity.
