Big Jeff's Big Deal

Jeffery Simmons' four-year, $94 million contract extension makes him the NFL's highest-paid defensive tackle in terms of guaranteed money ($66.91 million) and second to Aaron Donald in terms of average money over the next three seasons ($23.5 million). ... The deal means the Titans have Simmons' rights through the 2027 season. The structure of the contract, however, allows for Simmons to be released – not that such a thing seems likely at this moment – following the 2025 campaign. It also frees up more than $4 million of salary cap space for the current season. ... Most importantly, the transaction settles Tennessee's most pressing issue of the offseason and provides Simmons with the security and motivation that – given his personality – is likely to make him even more productive this year than he has been in his first four. ... According to current NFL mock drafts, three names come up most often in connection to the Titans and their first-round pick (No. 11 overall). They are: Ohio State tackle Paris Johnson Jr.; Kentucky quarterback Will Levis; and Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. A look at what likely appeals to the Titans in regard to each of the three and opinions on which would be the best fit, if all three are available when Tennessee picks.