The Tennessee Titans' focus in free agency thus far, even if it's a narrow one, has been on rebuilding the defensive side of the ball. Clearly, in taking over play-calling duties upon his hire, Robert Saleh was determined to improve that unit specifically. His latest signing is only more evidence to that end.
In a one-year deal, according to Jordan Schultz, the Titans are bringing in former Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Malik Herring to join the squad on what is, for now, a short-term basis. Herring appeared in just two games during the 2025 campaign after playing in 12 in 2024.
Sources: The #Titans are signing former #Chiefs DE Malik Herring to a 1-year deal.
Herring was an undrafted free agent out of Georgia and spent four years developing in Kansas City and seeing some action. Titans GM Mike Borgonzi was in KC when Herring was originally signed. pic.twitter.com/078eiY5LVj
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 11, 2026
In his run with Kansas City, which began in 2022, Herring managed 28 total tackles, 1.5 sacks and one forced fumble, serving a supporting role on multiple playoff-dominant rosters that climbed the absolute peaks of NFL postseason competition.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) passes the football against former Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Malik He
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) passes the football against former Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Malik Herring (94) | Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Fresh Depth, Invaluable Experience
Herring, while not expected (on the basis of his deal) to be a major contributor, brings an invaluable experience to the Titans sideline. In what appears to be another depth addition in a string of similar such signings for Tennessee, Saleh and his staff's continued emphasis on experience suggests a team with multiple options at multiple positions, many of whom have been to where the Titans are trying to go.
After an incredibly busy first and even second day of free agency, the Titans managing to squeeze these extra grabs in as the cycle continues is a telling testament to the ongoing, behind the scenes effort for a full-on rebuild, if nothing else.
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