At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis on Wednesday, Tennessee Titans General Manager Mike Borgonzi shared insights into several critical topics affecting the team’s roster and draft outlook. Borgonzi addressed the contract prospects of key players and provided health and scouting updates amid preparations for the upcoming season, highlighting the importance of strategic decisions for the Titans’ future.
Contract Focus on Peter Skoronski’s Long-Term Role
Borgonzi repeatedly emphasized the team’s intent to secure guard Peter Skoronski, their 2023 first-round draft pick, on an extended deal. When asked about exercising the possible fifth-year option on Skoronski’s rookie contract, Borgonzi explained it’s a useful mechanism but not the sole focus.
We always try to secure our best players early,
Borgonzi said.
And that is obviously a tool, an option we can use. But our goal is to get something done with Peter.
He reiterated Peter’s value to the team, emphasizing the desire for a long-lasting arrangement.
With Peter, he is one of our better players,
Borgonzi added,
and we’d like him here long-term. The fifth-year option is always a tool, a mechanism, you can use. But we are going to work to try and get something done with Peter.
Health Update on Quarterback Cam Ward
Regarding quarterback Cam Ward, who is currently recovering from a right shoulder injury, Borgonzi offered a cautiously optimistic status report on his rehabilitation.
I would just say he’s trending well, he’s tracking well, for the offseason,
Borgonzi reported, indicating positive progress as preparations continue.
Ongoing Discussions with Potential Free Agents
The Titans have maintained ongoing talks with several players approaching free agency, though Borgonzi chose to keep specific details confidential. During questions about pending free agents, tight end Chig Okonkwo’s name was mentioned, reflecting interest in maintaining key contributors.
I want to keep those internal right now,
Borgonzi explained.
But we have been in conversations with some of those guys.
Evaluations of Top Edge Rusher Prospects in This Draft Class
Borgonzi offered his assessment of three standout edge rushers drawing significant attention at the combine: Arvell Reese from Ohio State, Rueben Bain from Miami, and David Bailey of Texas Tech. Each player presents distinct strengths appealing to the Titans’ defensive plans.
They are all a little bit of a different flavor – all really good players,
Borgonzi said.
Bain is more of your power guy, who can kick down inside. Reese is obviously versatile, has done a lot of different things, has played off the ball. He has played as a pass rusher, he has length, he has explosion. And then Bailey had a ton of production this year off the edge. He has length, he has speed coming off the edge. So, all three of those guys are really good players.
Implications for Titans’ Roster Construction and Next Steps
Borgonzi’s remarks signal the Titans’ ongoing commitment to retaining core talent like Skoronski and managing health setbacks effectively, as seen with Ward. The engagement in free-agent talks indicates a proactive approach to roster stability, all while evaluating incoming talent, particularly edge rushers, to strengthen the defense. These moves are critical as the Titans balance immediate competitiveness with long-term planning in a tightly contested NFL landscape.
