| Wimbley gets after quarterbacks, which is what Tennessee needs. (Getty Images) |
Just because Peyton Manning's now found a destination, it doesn't mean free agency will end. On the contrary: the Titans, who whiffed on Manning, had to get in gear for other players and did just that, reportedly signing Kamerion Wimbley to a five-year deal worth $35 million.
That's according to Adam Caplan of the TheSidelineView.com, who also notes that Wimbley will get $13.5 million guaranteed and $11.5 million in the first season.
A pass-rusher was something the Titans desperately needed in the offseason; it was believed they'd be one of the top teams in pursuit of defensive end Mario Williams, until owner Bud Adams interjected and demanded that the front office chase Manning as well. While they were doing that, Williams signed with the Bills.
Wimbley's not a bad consolation prize, though, especially at this price. He's missed one game in his entire career and accumulated 42.5 sacks in his six-year career, while spending much of his time as a linebackers.
In Tennessee, he'll have his hand on the ground most (if not all) of the time, lining up as a defensive end.
Wimbley was drafted with the 13th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft by the Browns and spent the last two seasons with the Raiders. He was franchise-tagged prior to the 2011 season, but then given a long-term deal from Oakland.
As with many Oakland players, Wimbley was released when his salary didn't mesh well with new GM Reggie McKenzie's plan for not handing out ridiculous contracts.