All of the what-ifs turned into what is when free-agent wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins said he intended to sign with the Tennessee Titans. Coach Mike Vrabel confirmed the move, which added a much-needed and proven playmaker to an offense that desperately needed one. Nearly every other skill position player should benefit from the presence of the eight-time Pro Bowler, who at 31 years old – and based on recent social media posts – remains highly motivated as he joins his third NFL franchise. It also validated the approach of first-year general manager Ran Carthon, who has preached patience throughout the offseason. ... Hopkins might not be the last veteran the Titans add this offseason. Tackle George Fant, a seventh-year veteran with 60 career starts (more than any current member of the offensive line), is scheduled to work out for franchise officials days before the start of training camp. He could provide an immediate replacement for right tackle Nicholas Petit-Frere, who is suspended for the first six games, and an established voice of experience for a unit that will be dramatically different from a season ago. ... The typically reserved Derrick Henry was among the most outspoken as NFL players reacted to the failure of three high-profile running backs to secure long-term extensions this summer. Either the two-time rushing champion felt a real need to defense the honor of his position or feared for what he might face next offseason when he is scheduled to be a free agent and will be in search of a new contract – or both.

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