While the Tennessee Titans suffered a tough 52-14 loss to the Detroit Lions on Sunday, there were still positives for the organization.
Outside linebacker Arden Key stands out as one of the Titans’ most valuable trade assets.
Key is likely to be released after the 2024 season due to his base salary increasing to $6.5 million in 2025.
For a potential buyer, he would cost less than $100,000 per game this year, and his recent performance is showing why he could be a valuable addition to a contending team.
His trade value is on the rise at just the right time.
Key shines in Detroit
The Titans’ defense started strong in Detroit.
On the first play of the game, Key sacked Lions quarterback Jared Goff for a seven-yard loss, setting up a punt on the opening drive.
Later in the first quarter, Key struck again with a strip sack on Goff on third down.
He continued to make his presence felt with another quarterback hit in the second half, joining defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons to cause another Titans strip sack.
Key, 28, ended the game with two sacks, three quarterback hits, and a career-high six tackles.
In a possible indictment of the Titans’ coaching, Key revealed he sought outside guidance that adjusted his approach to rushing the passer before the Detroit game.
“I changed some things up the last three weeks, and you see in the last two games, I rushed a lot differently and was much more productive than before,” Key said after recording his first sack of the season against the Buffalo Bills.
“Now I’m starting to see the payoff, which is sacks and pressures.”
Whatever adjustments Key made, they’re clearly working. He’s suddenly looking like a strong trade chip that could yield a return if moved before the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday, November 5.
The Titans are in fire-sale mode, moving players with short-term value and no long-term contract control.
Key fits that category well. Ran Carthon and the front office are focused on gathering as much draft capital as possible to build the organization’s future.
With that in mind, there’s little reason to keep Key around for another 8-9 games.
While the defeat in Detroit was a tough one for Titans fans, Arden Key’s standout performance could be one bright spot with lasting value.
In a challenging season like this, every small victory counts.
