Titans Cut Sneed: A Costly Gamble Ends Early
A Costly Acquisition and Brief Tenure: L'Jarius Sneed's Journey with the Titans
The Tennessee Titans have made a significant roster change, releasing cornerback L'Jarius Sneed. This decision comes after a short and challenging period for Sneed with the team, following his trade from the Kansas City Chiefs. The move is primarily a strategic financial maneuver, aiming to create more than $11 million in salary cap space for the upcoming year. Sneed's time in Tennessee was largely defined by his inability to stay on the field, participating in only 12 games across two seasons.
Injury Woes Plague Sneed's Performance: A Contract Unfulfilled
The Titans' initial confidence in Sneed was evident when they signed him to a lucrative four-year, $76 million contract after acquiring him in 2024. However, his performance was consistently hampered by injuries. He began his first season on the physically unable to perform list, recovering from a knee procedure, and later battled a lingering quad injury. Sneed managed to play only seven games, recording 26 tackles and three passes defended, before another injury in mid-October sidelined him for the final 10 games of the season, leading to his placement on injured reserve.
The Infamous "Who?" Incident: Sneed's Pre-Game Banter with Nico Collins
Beyond his injury struggles, Sneed's tenure with the Titans is also remembered for a memorable pre-game exchange involving Houston Texans Pro Bowl wideout Nico Collins. Leading up to a Week 4 matchup against their AFC South rivals, Sneed was asked about facing the two-time 1,000-yard receiver. His now-infamous response was a dismissive "Who?" This comment quickly circulated, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the rivalry.
Collins' On-Field Response: Letting His Play Do the Talking
Collins, unfazed by Sneed's remarks, chose to let his performance speak for itself. In that game, he delivered an impressive showing, catching four passes for 79 yards—all while being covered by Sneed. The Texans ultimately dominated the game, securing a decisive 26-0 victory. Following the win, Collins succinctly commented on the situation, stating, "I don’t say much, I just play. You can talk all you want, I’m not hearing it. Just line that sh-- up."
A Chapter Closes: Sneed's Departure and the Titans' Direction
The Titans concluded that season with a coaching change, as Brian Callahan was relieved of his duties six games into the year. Sneed played only one more game after the Collins incident before being shut down for the remainder of the season. His release marks the end of a tumultuous chapter for the cornerback in the Titans' franchise history, leaving many to reflect on his brief and challenging impact, perhaps with a similar question in mind: "Who?"