The Tennessee Titans’ four-year, $76.4 million contract with cornerback L’Jarius Sneed has been labeled one of the worst deals in the NFL for 2025. Critics argue that Sneed’s performance and injury history have made it difficult for the team to justify the financial commitment to the 27-year-old defensive back.
Sneed was brought in to address a critical need in the Titans’ secondary, following standout seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs. However, his first season in Tennessee was marred by a quad injury that limited him to just five games. Pro Football Focus ranked him 212th among 222 cornerbacks, raising questions about whether he can regain his form in a new system.
The financial implications of Sneed’s deal have put additional pressure on the Titans. With $51.5 million guaranteed, the contract positions him as one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league. Yet, his inability to stay on the field and adapt to Tennessee’s defense has made the investment appear risky, especially as he continues to recover from a knee injury.
Analysts have pointed out that Sneed’s success in Kansas City may have been heavily influenced by the Chiefs’ championship-caliber defense. The transition to a new team has proven challenging, highlighting the risks of signing high-priced free agents who might not replicate their past success in a different environment. For the Titans, this gamble has yet to pay off.
NFL Analysis Names Tennessee Titans CB L’Jarius Sneed’s Contract As One of the Worst in the League
Sneed’s current contract isn’t projected to match what he really delivers to Tennessee. This is detailed more in an analysis by Kristopher Knox for Bleacher Report.
Contract Terms: four years, $76.4 million with $51.5 million guaranteed
Players surrounded by talent in a championship-caliber defense don’t always replicate their success in a new home, and that’s how things are trending with Sneed. Pro Football Focus graded him 212th overall among 222 cornerbacks for the 2024 season, a campaign that was cut short after five games by a quad injury. He’s missed time this offseason with a knee injury.
“We’re waiting for him to show us the player that he’s been,” head coach Brian Callahan told reporters at the start of mandatory minicamp. “He hasn’t reached that level of play for us.”
If Sneed is unable to bounce back this season, Tennessee can cut him in 2026 and save $11.9 million in cap space, though it would have to eat $20.1 million in dead money to do so.
There is cautious optimism that Sneed can bounce back in 2025, with training camp seen as a pivotal moment for his potential resurgence. The Titans are hopeful that a healthy Sneed can provide the stability and leadership their defense needs. However, the pressure to deliver remains immense.
The L’Jarius Sneed contract serves as a stark reminder of the risks tied to high-value free-agent deals. For the Titans, the coming season will determine whether this investment becomes a cornerstone for their defense or a costly misstep.
For More Of My Content
For More Of My Content Follow me on Twitter at @BeatKit22. You may also reach out to me personally at kitguinhawa@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and NFL news, click here!
