What Cody Barton Brings To The Tennessee Titans

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Mike Patton | Last updated Jun 23, 2025 10:43 AM ET

Much is talked about with the additions on offense the Tennessee Titans made with the anticipation that quarterback Cam Ward would be the first overall pick for them. However, in addition to addressing some offensive issues, the Titans also needed to improve certain aspects of their defense.

One position the Titans considered when upgrading the defense was the linebacker position, and in doing so, they signed former Denver Bronco Cody Barton to a three-year, $21 million deal with $9 million guaranteed. And with his addition, the Titans also traded away 2024 free agent signing linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr., along with a 2025 seventh-round pick, to the Dallas Cowboys for a 2025 sixth-round pick. So, with the signing of Barton, what can the Titans and Titans fans expect?

Well, one thing is sure: Barton is a player who's going to talk on the field. He has been heard numerous times talking trash on the practice field to the offense. But along with that, he has also been on the practice field, giving pointers and tips to other linebackers around him. Barton, who is expected to wear the green dot and be the primary communicator for the Titans' defense, has exhibited leadership qualities the defense needs, especially at the linebacker position.

His intangibles and communication skills will be welcomed, but his play on the field will also be needed. And if you saw his game against the New Orleans Saints in the 2024 season, that will tell you a little about what he can bring. Barton had eight tackles, one sack, one pass breakup and a fumble recovery that he returned for a touchdown in a Broncos 33-10 win in Week 7. He was everywhere for a Broncos defense that was highly rated all last season.

As for the thoughts from those who were able to watch him in Denver, Justin Adams, a reporter for CBS Colorado, talks very favorably about the new Titans linebacker. He was able to watch him play every Sunday last season for the Broncos.

"He has really good explosiveness and helped the Broncos when they needed depth at the position. He will be a solid player for the Titans," Adams told Athlon Sports.

For the Titans, they are hoping that what Barton has done in his past and what he has done in his short time in Nashville on the practice field is what they see on Sundays when the season starts.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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