nbcsports
Tennessee Titans head coach Robert Saleh made it clear that his team is not actively looking to trade players before the deadline. However, he also noted that in the NFL, a 1-6 record inevitably attracts attention from other teams.
That attention materialized when the Chicago Bears made a substantial offer for defensive tackle Jeffrey Simmons. The Bears sent their next two first-round draft picks to Tennessee in exchange for Simmons, a package that Saleh described as one that no team in the Titans' position could realistically turn down.
"No one's shopping any of our guys, but like I told our guys, when you don't close out games, and you're standing here at 1-6, teams are going to start fishing," Saleh said. "And eventually a team threw a hook big enough that I don't think any of us could've said no to."
Saleh expressed his admiration for Simmons, calling him the best defensive tackle in the NFL and stating that he hates to see him leave. "It's tough. Jeff is an elite football player and he's an even better person," Saleh said. "He's an elite leader. I've been outspoken on that. It sucks. Everything about it sucks. Unfortunately, necessary."
When asked about his final conversation with Simmons before the player left the Titans facility, Saleh declined to share details. "I'll keep that between me and him," he said. "Very, very, very tough conversation."
Key Analysis
The trade represents a difficult but potentially strategic move for the Titans. While losing a player of Simmons' caliber is a immediate blow, the acquisition of two first-round picks could provide the foundation for a future turnaround. Saleh's comments reflect the reality of a losing season: teams will inquire about available talent, and sometimes the compensation is too compelling to ignore.
Originally reported by nbcsports.