How the Titans could end up with Saints RB Darren Sproles

The Tennessee Titans will be evaluating whether or not they should keep running back Chris Johnson on for another year despite his unwillingness to adjust his lofty contract. However they aren't the only team that will be making a decision like that this year. The Saints recently said that franchising Jimmy Graham will require some "tough decisions" on what to do with personnel. In fact, the Saints are already projected to be over $15 million OVER the cap if they franchise Graham.

This could lead them to cutting their most expensive running back, someone who only played 364 snaps last year. That player just so happens to be Darren Sproles.

I know most of you are probably thinking that the Saints will NEVER cut Darren Sproles, but think about this:

1. Both Mark Ingram and Khiry Robinson had much better years than anticipated.

2. Both are younger running backs that are much cheaper than Sproles.

3. Both fit the "grinding" style that forces defense to commit more to the box, which is the only real reason Sean Payton runs the ball.

4. The Saints, facing cap problems, are going to be trying to trim fat and currently New Orleans has six running backs (including a FB) on the roster.

That doesn't exactly bode well for an aging speedster on a reduced snap count.

However, if the Saints do cut him, then the Titans could be ready to scoop him up. I have already written about how players like Julian Edelman and Danny Woodhead should be added to the Titans system given how effective Whisenhunt made that role in San Diego, however Sproles is that guy and then some.

The Titans would definitely have the roster spot and cap room to sign Sproles if they cut CJ. While he wouldn't be the bruiser back that Whisenhunt has worked with in the past he is a player that could be a matchup issue and allow the Titans to do much more in a "no-huddle" offense.