At 25 years old Titans cornerback Alterraun Verner is one of the most sought after free agents on the market. The Titans choose not to franchise tag the 2013 Pro Bowler and are seeking to keep him in Nashville on a long term extension.
The Titans are not the favorite to land Verner though, and rumors have up to eight teams interested in the former UCLA Bruin’s talents. The front runners and serious players to sign Verner have emerged during the “legal tampering” stage of free agency, but where will Verner sign?
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New York Jets: The Jets just cut Antonio Cromartie freeing up cap space to make a little splash in free agency. The Jets also have the need at corner from cutting Cromartie, but they have bigger needs on offense. Verner would be a nice addition, but it’s not likely Jets can afford the luxury.
Odds: 15 to 1
Vikings: The Vikings signed former Tennessee defensive coordinator Jerry Gray as their secondary coach awhile back. Verner has had his best seasons under Gray’s tutelage and that makes the Vikings a serious contender for his services. If Gray doesn’t pursue Verner it could raise red flags on the cornerback similar to when Joe Philbin didn’t pursue Matt Flynn after leaving Green Bay. Don't worry though, the Vikings are interested.
Odds: 5 to 1
Rams: Jeff Fisher is familiar with Verner and all of Tennessee for that matter. The Rams just cut former Titan Cortland Finnegan to save some cap. It only seems right that they would use that money on the younger Titan model. The Rams have signed plenty of Titan leftovers over the years and Verner will be just another brick in the NFL’s youngest and rising defense.
Odds 3 to 1
Titans: Give the Titans some credit for their coaching confidence over the years. They have let close to a dozen free agents walk away when other called them crazy. Albert Haynesworth, Jevon Kearse and Finnegan to name a few. Of course this is hit or miss, but if the Titans let a player walk, you have to question if the player is worth the money. Titans have a fighters chance due to familiarity, but its not a good chance.
Odds: 50 to 1
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The Field: Giants, Steelers and Lions have said they ahem interest in Verner as well, but with the Vikings and Rams interested it looks to be a two horse race. Anything is possible and Verner would be a great fit on these teams, but the best fits are St.Louis and Minnesota.
Odds: 20 to 1 each
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