The Tennessee Titans were in need of a new foundational off-ball linebacker to lead their defense after the team let Azeez Al-Shaair walk via free agency. Titans general manager Ran Carthon didn't waste any time making sure that void was filled as soon as possible. News broke on Tuesday that the Titans would be signing former Chargers linebacker Kenneth Murray to be the new anchor for the Tennessee defense. But there was one problem.
Kenneth Murray has worn the number 9 for the majority of his career. In fact, "K-9" had become his brand over the past few years.
Why is Murray wearing the number 9 an issue? The late great Steve McNair wore the number 9 for his entire Houston Oilers and Tennessee Titans career.
The Titans officially retired the numbers 9 and 27 (Eddie George) back in 2019, so Murray was certainly not going to be wearing his branded number after joining Tennessee this week. But in his presser Murray was already well aware of the situation, and showed great respect for one of the best players to ever wear a Titans jersey as you can see in the A to Z Sports post below.
Murray didn't share what number he we will be wearing when he kicks of his Titans career as a new leader on defense, but it's nice to know the young star linebacker knows how much Steve McNair means to the Titans organization and its fans.
The Titans will lean heavily upon Kenneth Murray this fall as he will likely be the player sporting the green dot on the back of his helmet when the first game kicks off in September. He's off to a great start in Nashville. Hopefully his leadership and elite athleticism translates to on-field success here soon.
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