Sorting through the defensive end talk

There’s been a lot of speculation about the Titans having an interest in defensive ends Osi Umenyiora, John Abraham and Dwight Freeney.

It’s understandable. All three are capable of helping any team in need of a better pass rush.

But I’m not expecting the Titans to be a big player on any of them in free agency.

Tampa Bay defensive end Michael Bennett did make a case this morning on why he wouldn’t mind joining the Titans, however: Titans defensive assistant/pass rush specialist Keith Millard.

Millard coached Bennett in Tampa Bay.

“Working with Keith before, he does a great job of getting the best out of you and I would love any opportunity to be coached by Keith. He is the one who helped me even reach my potential, though I haven’t reached it all the way. But he has obviously been an instrumental part of my career,’’ Bennett said on 98.7-FM in Tampa. “I still talk to him even during the season, get him to watch my tape and see what I can do better. He is a great friend whether I play with him or not, he is still one of my closest friends.”

Bennett had nine sacks with Tampa Bay last season. He has 13 sacks over the past two seasons.

Bennett said at least eight teams have contacted his agent over the weekend.

But he made it clear he’s interested in staying in Tampa Bay.

“I hope I can be back with the Bucs, but I’m not sure if that’s going to happen or not,’’ Bennett said. “I’ll give the Bucs a chance to match any player I get. I’d love to finish here.”

Share on Facebook

Posted In: League News, Team News

Source: Titans Insider