Shaun

Smith

He was released after sneaking into the pressbox before last week’s game to eat.

That’s a new one.

Martin is expected to make an immediate impact, and the Titans like veteran Shaun Smith as a rotational piece against the run. A second-round pick in 2009, Marks is set to make $615,000 in the final year of his rookie deal. He’ll have to beat out Smith, versatile DE/DT Malcolm Sheppard, and perhaps even undrafted free agent DaJohn Harris to make the Opening Day roster.

“I didn’t feel like I played to the ability that I should have,” said Smith. “I didn’t play at a high level.” DC Jerry Gray believes Smith also had trouble adjusting to the Titans 4-3 defense after a history in the 3-4. Smith vows to work harder this offseason to improve his gap penetration.

In July of 2011, the Titans signed Smith to a three-year, $7.25 million contract. He proceeded to show up out of shape and underperformed badly. The Titans save roughly $1.25 million in 2012 base salary by moving on from Smith, now 31. They are plenty deep at defensive tackle after using four draft picks at the position in the last two years.

“I wasn’t happy with my play last season,” Smith said. Due roughly $2 million, Smith also admits to uncertainty over his roster spot. “Am I worried? I’d be lying if I said I’m not worried.” Smith notched just 25 tackles and one sack in the first year of a three-year deal last season.

It’s an indication Glenn Dorsey (calf) could miss multiple games. Smith failed to make it to final cuts with the Titans despite signing a three-year, $7.25 million deal in 2011. Out of shape, he badly under-performed last season. Smith could immediately join the Chiefs’ defensive line rotation.

Greene is a cheaper alternative to Steven Jackson, but he doesn’t bring a whole lot to the table, particularly in the passing game. Greene lacks burst, vision, and averaged just 3.9 YPC on a career-high 279 totes in 2012. Pauline says free agent DL Shaun Smith has also been connected to the Packers.