Veteran Linebacker Cody Barton Joins the Titans for a New Chapter in Tennessee.
In a significant move during the 2025 NFL free agency period, the Tennessee Titans bolstered their defense by signing veteran linebacker Cody Barton to a three-year, $21 million contract. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in Barton’s career, as he transitions from a special teams contributor to a central figure in the Titans’ defensive lineup.(FOX Sports)
Cody Barton, born on November 13, 1996, in Salt Lake City, Utah, embarked on his professional football journey when the Seattle Seahawks selected him in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. During his tenure with the Seahawks, Barton primarily contributed on special teams and as a rotational linebacker. However, his potential was evident, and he transitioned to a starting role in 2022. Subsequent seasons saw him with the Washington Commanders and the Denver Broncos, where he continued to develop his skills and gain valuable experience.(Wikipedia, Field Gulls)
In 2024, Barton had a breakout season with the Denver Broncos. Initially signed to a one-year, $2.5 million deal, he was expected to be a core special teamer and situational defender. However, following a season-ending injury to linebacker Alex Singleton in Week 3, Barton stepped into a starting role and excelled. He played 1,053 defensive snaps (91% of the team’s total), recording 106 tackles, two interceptions, a fumble return for a touchdown, and five passes defensed. His performance was instrumental in the Broncos’ successful season, which included snapping a nine-year playoff drought. (SI, ESPN.com, espntoday.com)
The Tennessee Titans, coming off a challenging 2024 season, recognized the need to strengthen their defense. With the interior linebacker position being a focal point of improvement, the team identified Barton as a valuable asset. His leadership qualities, work ethic, and recent performance made him an ideal fit for the Titans’ defensive scheme.
General Manager Mike Borgonzi and Head Coach Mike Vrabel sought to infuse the defense with a renewed energy and stability. Barton, with his experience and proven track record, was seen as a key piece in achieving these goals. His ability to communicate effectively on the field, especially after wearing the green dot in Denver, was also a significant factor in the Titans’ decision to bring him aboard. (FOX Sports, ESPN.com)
Cody Barton’s commitment to excellence is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Raised in a family with a strong athletic background, his father was a professional athlete, and his mother was a collegiate star at the University of Utah. This environment instilled in Barton a relentless work ethic and a drive to succeed. He often reflects on his father’s advice: “Hard work is the only recipe,” and applies this philosophy to his career. (SI)
As Barton embarks on this new chapter with the Tennessee Titans, expectations are high. His experience, leadership, and recent performance position him as a cornerstone of the Titans’ defense. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his presence will impact the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
With the Titans’ first preseason game scheduled against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 9, 2025, all eyes will be on Barton as he takes the field in his new uniform. His journey from a special teams contributor to a starting linebacker reflects his dedication and growth as a player. The Tennessee Titans are poised to benefit from his experience and leadership as they aim to strengthen their defense and make a deeper playoff run in the 2025 season.
