The idea of Dwight Freeney ever going to the Titans seems to have been more created by the fans than by any sort of proof. Finally after a long offseason Freeney has signed with the Chargers for a two-year deal worth up to $13.35 million, without ever expressing interest to join the Titans or vice versa.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>Two years, $8.75 million for Dwight Freeney, with max value of $13.35 million <a href="http://t.co/1zCQMhYQWX" title="http://wp.me/p14QSB-8WvP">wp.me/p14QSB-8WvP</a></p>— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProFootballTalk/status/335794620871110656">May 18, 2013</a></blockquote>
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Now even though the Titans never actually attempted to sign Freeney, his deal could mean a lot to the franchise. The Titans have feelers our on John Abraham and this contract could lead to a starting point between the two parties. Freeney's deal is incentive based and he can end up making more that 150% of what his deal is by hitting certain sack numbers. Keeping in mind that Freeney was the only top-name pass rusher left that had played any DE/OLB it is safe to say that he had all the leverage in the negotiation when Melvin Ingram suffered a season ending injury before camp started.
My idea is this, sign John Abraham to a one-year, $5 million contract with an additional $3 million in incentives. There would be three incentive points:
A. Either force four fumbles, or get six sacks. Earn $750,000
B. Either force six fumbles, or get 10 sacks. Earn $750,000
C. Either force 10 fumbles or get 16 sacks. Earn $1.5 million
Obviously the third incentive is a high mark, but it isn't unobtainable considering how fresh he should be and the bulk the Titans have to command double teams in the middle.
This deal works for both parties. On the Titans end it would allow them to close free agency strong and get another veteran presence at defensive end, without hurting long-term cap or causing issues with young talent at defensive end considering the Titans only added one in the draft. Abraham gets a great place to reestablish himself for a big 2014 contract while also earning money that is more than fair.