:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66492831/usa_today_13897565.0.jpg)
Dion Lewis is officially a free agent, as the Tennessee Titans announced Thursday that they have released the running back. He was two seasons into a four-year deal worth $19.8 million.
This move makes a lot of sense, as Lewis didn’t live up to the expectations Tennessee set for him in 2018, when he joined the Titans. He only accounted for 373 yards from scrimmage last season and scored one touchdown. Releasing him saves Tennessee around $4 million against the salary cap, and it has some big-time contracts on the horizon.
Fantasy football analysis
Lewis’ release makes Derrick Henry’s return seem more likely to happen. He was a top five fantasy running back last year and is one player the Titans should be focused on retaining. He led the league with 1,540 yards and 18 scores last season, he lacks the versatility other backs can provide through the passing game. Nevertheless, Tennessee is expected to continue fielding a run-powered offense moving forward. The Titans have around $50.4 million in cap space and could be gearing up to pay Henry $13 million or more in 2020.