New Tennessee Titans free agent signing understands what Steve McNairs means to the organization

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.