If there’s anyone who understands the price defensive end Denico Autry has brought to the Tennessee Titans, it’s his former teammate and defensive line mate, Jeffery Simmons.
The two were teammates for more than three seasons, but the Titans left Autry to control the free-agent waters, and will now see him twice a year after the 33-year-old point guard agreed to terms. A one-year, $10 million contract with one of Tennessee’s departmental rivals, the Houston Texans, a move Simmons has made clear he’s not a fan of.
There’s no Nico going to pass to the Texans. . . . ♂️♂️
Autry had his most productive 3 seasons alongside Simmons on the Titans’ defensive line, totaling 171 pressures, 113 carries and 28. 5 sacks, totaling a career-high 11. 5 in 2023.
Conversely, Simmons also benefited from his partnership, recording a career-high 166, 121 carries and 21. 5 sacks, totaling a career-high 66 and 8. 5 sacks in Autry’s rookie season in 2021.
While Autry has been a productive passer for Tennessee, the $5 million value is likely what made the rebuilding Titans hesitant to bring back the 6-foot-5 defensive end.
Autry will be part of Houston’s defensive line in opposition to Will Anderson, the 2023 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, replacing Jonathan Greenard. The 26-year-old Greenard, who led the Texans with 12. 5 sacks in 2023 and ranked second in pressure (53), agreed to terms. with the Minnesota Vikings the day before for a four-year, $72 million contract.
Houston will be the third AFC South team Autry will play for. He spent 3 years with the Titans (2021 to 2023) and the Indianapolis Colts (2018 to 2020).
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