Titans' Jeffery Simmons named potential MVP candidate

One of the most exciting aspects of the Tennessee Titans’ training camp will be watching the new-look defense under head coach Robert Saleh come together.

Tennessee made some significant additions alongside Jeffery Simmons and Cedric Gray, clearly upgrading the unit’s depth and talent. So much so, many analysts expect Simmons to possibly be even more dominant in 2026.

Kevin Patra of NFL.com looked at all of the AFC rosters and picked a potential MVP candidate from each team, and to no surprise, he chose the Titans’ defensive leader.

Tennessee Titans – Jeffery Simmons

Simmons was one of the most dominant interior defensive linemen this side of Aaron Donald before Robert Saleh became his head coach. Now, with Saleh calling the shots in Tennessee? Look out. In 2025, Simmons produced 60 QB pressures, a 13.9% pressure rate, 26 quick pressures, a 6% quick QB pressure rate, and 11 sacks, all of which were league-highs for a DT, per Next Gen Stats. That was all in a scheme that didn’t ask him to attack upfield much. Saleh’s defense should unleash Simmons’ game-wrecking ability. Instead of being asked to gobble up double-teams, he’ll be called on to knife into the backfield and become a disruptor. On paper, this is a match made in heaven.

Simmons was one of the most dominant interior defensive linemen this side of Aaron Donald before Robert Saleh became his head coach. Now, with Saleh calling the shots in Tennessee? Look out. In 2025, Simmons produced 60 QB pressures, a 13.9% pressure rate, 26 quick pressures, a 6% quick QB pressure rate, and 11 sacks, all of which were league-highs for a DT, per Next Gen Stats. That was all in a scheme that didn’t ask him to attack upfield much. Saleh’s defense should unleash Simmons’ game-wrecking ability. Instead of being asked to gobble up double-teams, he’ll be called on to knife into the backfield and become a disruptor. On paper, this is a match made in heaven.

Simmons is coming off a career season in 2025 and was one of the most dominant defensive players in the league. Now, with the Titans implementing an attacking defensive front, Simmons could have a chance to become even more disruptive under Saleh. If he does take that step forward, not only will the defense be better, but the whole organization will take a step forward.

This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Titans’ Jeffery Simmons named potential MVP candidate