Two major moves by the Tennessee Titans this April signal a clear direction for the franchise's future. The team officially exercised the fifth-year option on guard Peter Skoronski's rookie contract, securing his services through the 2027 season. Additionally, the Titans traded up in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft to select edge rusher Keldric Faulk with the 31st overall pick.
These transactions reflect a deliberate strategy from general manager Mike Borgonzi: fortify the offensive line's foundation and bolster the pass rush to compete effectively in the AFC South and beyond. Let's unpack what these moves mean for the Titans' roster construction and long-term outlook.
Securing Skoronski's Future on the Offensive Line
When the Titans made Peter Skoronski the 11th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the anticipation was that he would become a cornerstone of their offensive line. Three seasons into his career, Skoronski has lived up to much of that expectation.
Skoronski has started 47 of his 51 possible games, proving his versatility by primarily anchoring the left guard position but also stepping in at left tackle when injuries dictated. Known more for his technique and leverage than raw power, Skoronski has quietly emerged as one of the AFC's most reliable interior blockers. In the 2025 season, he allowed only four sacks, a testament to his disciplined play and football IQ.
On April 18, 2026, the Titans front office announced they would exercise Skoronski's fifth-year option. This option guarantees a fully guaranteed salary for the 2027 season, which is estimated at around $19.07 million--a figure that aligns with top-tier guards in the league today. This decision locks in continuity on a critical part of the offense, ensuring stability for both the running game and pass protection schemes.
General Manager Mike Borgonzi stated, "Exercising Peter's option reflects our confidence in his development and his leadership role on the offensive line. It's a foundational piece we are thrilled to keep in Tennessee."
The move comes with minor risk but ample upside. The fifth-year option allows the Titans to maintain flexibility; they still hold the ability to negotiate a long-term extension if Skoronski continues his upward trajectory. For a franchise that emphasizes a strong, well-coordinated offensive front, retaining a homegrown starter like Skoronski is a prudent investment.
Trading Up for Keldric Faulk: Enhancing the Pass Rush
While locking up Skoronski ensures offensive consistency, the Titans also aggressively improved their defense by trading up seven spots from No. 38 to No. 31 in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft to select edge rusher Keldric Faulk. This move cost Tennessee a 2027 fourth-round pick but reflects their willingness to be decisive when targeting talent they believe in.
Standing 6'4" and weighing 261 pounds, Faulk brings a combination of size, length, and technique that intrigues the Titans' defensive staff. In his final collegiate season, Faulk recorded 9.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt both passing and running plays. Though not the most elite athlete in his draft class, Faulk's diverse pass-rush repertoire--including the club-rip, long-arm, and spin moves--makes him a promising prospect with the potential to develop into a three-down contributor.
Defensive Coordinator Gus Bradley and his staff see Faulk as a valuable rotational edge rusher who can contribute immediately while growing into a more consistent threat on third downs. The Titans have invested significantly in their defensive line depth in recent years, and Faulk's addition enhances rotation options and depth, critical in a demanding AFC South division with mobile quarterbacks and dynamic offenses.
Bigger Picture: Building a Competitive Titans Team
While one is a contract decision and the other a draft acquisition, the combination of these moves represents Tennessee's broader team-building philosophy for 2026 and beyond.
First, the foundation starts in the trenches. The offensive line is vital to every successful NFL team, and by securing Skoronski's fifth-year option, the Titans affirm their commitment to building a cohesive unit with players who develop chemistry over time. This approach is crucial for both the running game and for protecting franchise quarterback Hendon Hooker.
Second, the addition of Faulk on the edge reflects the importance the Titans place on consistent pressure without relying heavily on blitzes. Tennessee finished the 2025 season with 41 team sacks, ranking 12th in the NFL--a respectable showing but one that leaves room for improvement. An edge rusher like Faulk gives the defense more versatility and pass-rush options early in his career.
Finally, the trade-up demonstrates organizational decisiveness. By moving up to No. 31, the Titans signaled they valued Faulk's potential enough to expend future draft capital rather than waiting for him to fall. This aggressiveness should be welcomed by fans hoping for an active front office that pursues opportunities to improve the roster.
Looking Ahead
Despite these positive moves, the Titans face ongoing challenges. Depth remains an area of focus at several positions, including parts of the offensive line and secondary units. The pass rush, while enhanced, still needs development to reach an elite level.
Nonetheless, today's decisions reinforce a progressive approach to roster management grounded in patience and strategic investment. Skoronski is a locked-in building block. Faulk is a developmental bet with the tools to make a difference on defense.
For Tennessee fans, optimism is warranted. The Titans are shaping a competitive team capable of contending within the AFC South and challenging for playoff berths. The foundation is being laid carefully but firmly, and the front office's moves show a clear vision toward sustained success.
With Robert Saleh as head coach, Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator, Gus Bradley directing the defense, and Mike Borgonzi running the football operations, the Titans are positioned to continue building on these foundational pieces in 2026 and beyond.
This season, all eyes will be on how Skoronski anchors the offensive line and how Faulk adapts to the pro game, measuring their impact both immediately and in the years ahead. The outlook for Tennessee's core infrastructure and pass rush is growing brighter, signaling that this franchise is preparing for a promising future.