NFL Free Agency: Titans earn high marks for Kevin Zeitler signing

[ASFN Admin]

One of the biggest needs heading into the offseason for the Tennessee Titans was fixing the offensive line, and the team has taken a big swing so far. Not only did they sign one of the top available tackles in Dan Moore, they grabbed one of the most accomplished guards available to bring in some talent and veteran leadership.

By signing Kevin Zeitler to a one-year deal, the Titans have seriously upgraded the interior of the offensive line and brought in a player that should help 2023 first-round pick Peter Skoronski develop into one of the better guards in the league.

This solid move was not only a hit with fans, ESPN analyst Seth Walder praised it in his free agency grades.

Titans sign G Kevin Zeitler​

The deal: One year, $9 million

Grade: A

A year ago, I wrote that the Lions signing Zeitler at a value price -- one year for $6 million then -- was one of my favorite moves of their offseason. Well, it's a new team, but the same story, with the NFL overlooking Zeitler again because he's a temporary solution.

There's no question that Zeitler is old; he just turned 35. But he also is the best pass protector in this free agent guard class. And offensive linemen age much better than players at most other positions.

Zeitler ranked sixth in pass block win rate (94%) last season after ranking 12th the season before in Baltimore and 11th the season before that. That's reliability! His run-blocking win rate (72%) was a little above average.

I understand that teams want to find solutions for years to come at this point of free agency, which is why younger players such as Aaron Banks and Will Fries got big money. But if I had to bet on whether one of Banks, Fries or Zeitler will be an above-average pass protector in 2025, I'm choosing Zeitler without hesitation! To get him signed for less than half the annual value of Banks (and without any guaranteed cost beyond this year) is so much better of a deal.

I like what Tennessee is doing for its offensive line, especially if it drafts Miami quarterback Cam Ward with the No. 1 pick in April. The Titans are prioritizing getting him protection right and doing a very good job of it.

Zeitler is a consummate professional and should help anchor the Titans' offensive line, even if it is only for 2025. He is arguably the best guard on the market, and his experience will be a tremendous benefit for a young offensive line. This was a home run signing for the Titans.

This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: NFL Free Agency: Titans earn high marks for Kevin Zeitler signing

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