Jeffery Simmons Says Robert Saleh's "Attack" Defense Will Unleash Him -- and the Titans

Jeffery Simmons tied his new role to Robert Saleh’s “attack” defensive philosophy as the Tennessee Titans prepare for the 2024 season. Speaking to Jim Wyatt, Simmons said he is in his first year playing an “attack defense,” preferring to operate on the other side of the line of scrimmage each play. The Titans’ defensive tackle is described as having become the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history, and his comments position his offseason and in-season expectations around making more plays in the backfield. Saleh has emphasized fast play and physicality, frequently using language about “violence” in how his unit will operate. On the back end, linebacker Cedric Gray said the coverage scheme is more reactive, relying on drops and breaks rather than matching as before. In the pass rush context, the article notes additions and changes including Jermaine Johnson, acquired from the Jets for T'Vondre Sweat, and John Franklin-Myers, signed to a three-year, $63 million contract.