NASHVILLE, TN — June 4, 2025 | NFL Insider Report
As the team works to reverse its fortunes following a disappointing three-win campaign in 2024, Head Coach Brian Callahan has made it clear: the Titans are rebuilding with purpose — and the door may be open for familiar faces to return and contribute in a new era.
🔁 Return of a Former Pick?
Petit-Frere, a third-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, was once viewed as a long-term solution at offensive tackle. After flashes of potential as a rookie, his development was derailed by injuries, inconsistent play, and a suspension in 2023 for violating the league’s gambling policy.
Now waived by his second team and a free agent, league insiders say Petit-Frere is actively eyeing a reunion with the Titans — the franchise that gave him his start.
“He still believes in his upside, and there’s mutual familiarity,” one AFC South scout noted. “A return to Tennessee could benefit both sides, especially under a new coaching staff.”
📉 The Titans’ Decline: 16 Wins in 3 Years
The Titans’ interest in reshuffling the trenches comes amid one of the worst three-year stretches in franchise history — only 16 total wins from 2022 to 2024, including a 3–14 record last season.
Much of the downturn stems from failed draft picks, poor player development, and costly free-agent signings under former management.
•Treylon Burks (2022 first-round pick) has battled injuries and inconsistency.
•Will Levis (2023 second-round QB) never cemented himself as a reliable starter.
•Nicholas Petit-Frere, as a starting tackle, failed to lock down a position long-term.
Even promising prospects like Peter Skoronski (2023 first-round guard) and JC Latham (2024 No. 7 overall tackle) still face questions after struggling in pass protection against elite defenses.
🛠️ Callahan & Borgonzi: A New Era Begins
After the Titans parted ways with GM Ran Carthon and former head coach Mike Vrabel, the organization hired Mike Borgonzi (former Chiefs executive) as GM and Brian Callahan, the former Bengals OC, as head coach — signaling a shift in philosophy.
“We’ve got to correct the past by building smart and developing talent better than we ever have,” said Callahan during OTAs. “Mistakes were made. We’re not hiding from that. But the goal is the same — we’re building toward a title.”
Under Callahan, the Titans have gone all-in on offense:
•Drafted QB Cameron Ward (1st overall, 2025), seen as the future of the franchise.
•Signed WRs Calvin Ridley and Tyler Lockett to boost the passing game.
•Added RB Tony Pollard to replace Derrick Henry’s workload with speed and versatility.
•Rebuilt the offensive line, including Skoronski, JC Latham, and veteran Lloyd Cushenberry III at center.
However, depth remains an issue — particularly at tackle. That’s where Petit-Frere’s familiarity and affordability could become an asset.
⚖️ Petit-Frere: Risk or Redemption?
Still just 25 years old, Petit-Frere offers a high ceiling if healthy and focused. He appeared in 16 games with 12 starts as a rookie but never regained that form after a combination of injuries and off-field issues.
“The new regime is about second chances,” said one Titans staffer. “If he shows he’s healthy, it’s a no-risk, depth-friendly signing.”
🔮 What Comes Next
The Titans are not expected to rush any decisions, with training camp still weeks away. But in a year where Callahan is preaching accountability, flexibility, and upside, a player like Petit-Frere could fit that mold — especially if the team believes it can unlock the potential that once made him a Day 2 draft pick.
Meanwhile, Callahan’s “bold vision” for 2025 centers around developing rookie QB Cameron Ward, protecting him with better line play, and using tempo, motion, and spacing to revitalize one of the NFL’s least productive offenses.
“The past doesn’t define us,” Callahan stated. “But we’d be foolish not to learn from it. Every move we make is about building a team that wins in January and February — not just one that survives the fall.”
📌 Key Notes:
•Titans 2024 record: 3–14
•Nicholas Petit-Frere stats: 30 career games, 20 starts
•Titans current tackles: JC Latham (R), Jaelyn Duncan, Geron Christian
•Potential cap hit if re-signed: Likely vet minimum or short-term deal
•Decision timeline: Mid-to-late June, prior to mandatory minicamp
Stay with NFL Insider and TitansWire for continued coverage of the Titans’ offseason moves, training camp battles, and roster developments.
