Post NFL Free Agency needs: defense

The Tennessee Titans did a great job filling holes in free agency, but there are still places where they can get better if they want to be competitive in the short term, as well as in the long term.

With the Titans out of the market until after the draft, here is what I have as the Titans top needs on defense:

1. 5-tech

While this isn't a glaring need, it is one of the biggest after a very successful free agency period for the Titans on defense. Dick LeBeau has proven that he doesn't need to draft defensive linemen high to make them successful, i.e. Aaron Smith, Brett Keisel etc. so this doesn't mean they need to be taken highly.

If the Titans add a good 5-tech to this front seven, they could be VERY good immediately.

2. EDGE

While the Titans did a great job restocking at this position, this team needs a talented young edge rusher badly. With Brian Orakpo an injury concern and Derrick Morgan as the guy who always provides pressure but rarely sacks, this team needs a finisher.

While this is easier said than done, if there was any class that was going to supply a second/third round pass rusher that could be great it is this one. Eli Harold is someone who a lot of people like, and athletically he does fit what LeBeau has typically thrived with.

3. NT

This is really just a personal thing for me here. I think Sammie Lee Hill can do well, but I think he is someone you want to rotate in on passing downs to maximize his quick feet and ability to get into the backfield. Also, I think it is fair to say that as effective as Hill was last year (and he was pretty effective) I think that the Titans need someone with more power in the middle to control the run.

The Titans should want a true two-gaping NT to fit LeBeau's scheme and grabbing a guy like Jordan Phillips from Oklahoma in round two could be a great way to make this defense better.