Tuesday’s tender decisions in the NFL:
RFAs
Non-tendered:
- Titans: LB Jack Gibbens, P Ryan Stonehouse
The Titans have made the decision to sign the NFL’s most decorated active punter, Johnny Hekker, to replace Stonehouse. The team informed Stonehouse he will not be tendered, per the Denver Gazette’s Chris Tomasson; the low-end RFA number comes in at $3.26MM this year. Stonehouse stands to generate interest, as he brought down one of the longest-standing records in NFL history — Sammy Baugh‘s single-season punting average set more than 70 years ago. Stonehouse not only broke Baugh’s record by averaging 53.1 yards per punt in 2022 but repeated that average in 2023 as well. A broken leg suffered on a late-season blocked punt in 2023 led to extensive rehab, but Stonehouse still averaged 50.6 per boot in 2024.
Similarly, Gibbens will be hitting unrestricted free agency (via ESPN’s Adam Schefter) after playing a regular role. The former UDFA has made 20 career starts, including 13 in 2023. Gibbens made 95 tackles (three for loss) and notched three passes defensed that year. The Titans have since added Kenneth Murray (2024) and Cody Barton (Monday), leaving Gibbens — whom the team only used as a five-game starter last year — free to explore outside options.