The Tennessee Titans traded All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons to the Chicago Bears on Thursday for 2027 and 2028 first-round picks plus a 2027 fourth-round pick, while sending a 2028 fifth-rounder with Simmons. The deal, which is pending a physical, converts its most accomplished defender into premium draft capital as the franchise confronts another lost season.
Locked On Titans host Tyler Rowland called the return a “Godfather” deal that Tennessee could not refuse. Simmons, 29, had produced four sacks, one forced fumble and 38 combined tackles through seven games. The former first-round pick leaves after four Pro Bowl nominations and three All-Pro selections.
Rowland’s case is rooted in the gap between one elite player and an incomplete roster. Tennessee is 1-6, and he argued that retaining Simmons would not create a realistic short-term playoff path. The two incoming first-rounders give the front office more routes to add young talent, move around the board or package assets in future deals.
The host rejected comparisons to the trade of wide receiver A.J. Brown to the Philadelphia Eagles, arguing that Simmons’ age and contract, as well as the team’s current standing, make this a different decision. Brown was dealt after the 2021 season, when Tennessee had just finished as the AFC’s No. 1 seed; Simmons departs amid a far different outlook.
Rowland also viewed the transaction as a warning for head coach Robert Saleh and quarterback Cam Ward, arguing that the club has moved away from the quick turnaround it envisioned. The trade unquestionably strips Saleh’s defense of its longtime interior centerpiece and changes the resources available to general manager Mike Borgonzi.
Tennessee returns to the field Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. The immediate challenge is replacing Simmons’ production; the larger one is using the newly acquired picks to build a roster capable of ending the franchise’s slide.
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