The Tennessee Titans have added linebacker Mohamoud Diabate to strengthen their defensive unit ahead of the 2026 NFL season. The move brings additional depth to a roster that has already undergone several changes during free agency.
General Manager Mike Borgonzi has been active in addressing key areas such as wide receiver, defensive line, and cornerback. However, linebacker depth remained one of the areas where the Titans still needed reinforcement.
By signing Diabate, the Titans aim to support defensive coordinator Robert Saleh’s system while reducing pressure on the starting linebackers.
Titans Add Depth at Linebacker
| Player | Mohamoud Diabate |
|---|---|
| Position | Linebacker |
| New Team | Tennessee Titans |
| Previous Team | Cleveland Browns |
| Role | Depth linebacker |
Diabate is expected to provide rotational support and veteran presence in the linebacker group. His addition could help manage workloads for starters Cody Barton and Cedric Gray.
The Titans’ linebacker depth chart already included players such as James Williams Sr., Dorian Mausi, and Cam Riley, but the team sought additional experience at the position.
College Career Overview
| College | Years |
|---|---|
| Florida | 2019 – 2021 |
| Utah | 2022 |
Diabate began his college football career at Florida, where he spent three seasons developing as a linebacker. He later transferred to Utah for the 2022 season to complete his college career.
After going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, he signed with the Cleveland Browns.
NFL Career With Cleveland Browns
| Season | Games Played | Starts | Tackles | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 16 | 1 | — | Rookie season |
| 2024 | 13 | 11 | 70 | Career-high tackles |
| 2025 | 17 | 6 | 49 | Reserve role |
Diabate made Cleveland’s 53-man roster as an undrafted rookie in 2023 and appeared in 16 games with one start.
His role expanded in 2024 before a hip injury interrupted the season early. Despite the setback, he returned in October and finished the season with 70 total tackles across 13 games, including 11 starts.
In 2025, he remained active throughout the season, appearing in all 17 games and contributing as a rotational linebacker.
During that campaign, he recorded 49 tackles, three tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.
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Titans Defensive Situation
| Defensive Role | Current Player |
|---|---|
| Starting LB | Cody Barton |
| Starting LB | Cedric Gray |
| Depth Options | Diabate, Williams Sr., Mausi, Riley |
Diabate’s arrival provides another experienced option behind Barton and Gray. His previous starting experience in Cleveland could prove valuable if injuries occur or if additional rotation is needed during the season.
Edge Rusher Still a Position to Watch
| Position Need | Edge Rusher |
|---|---|
| Current Starter | Jermaine Johnson |
| Other Option | Femi Oladejo |
While linebacker depth has been addressed, the Titans still have questions at edge rusher.
Jermaine Johnson currently leads the position group, while Femi Oladejo is projected as the other starter. Oladejo has limited starting experience, having played only six games.
Because of this, the Titans may look toward the upcoming draft to add more pass-rushing talent.
Also see: Abdul Carter switches to No. 3 jersey for New York Giants in 2026 season
Potential 2026 NFL Draft Targets
| Prospect | Position |
|---|---|
| Rueben Bain | Edge Rusher |
| David Bailey | Edge Rusher |
| Keldric Faulk | Edge Rusher |
The Titans hold the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, giving them an opportunity to address several remaining needs on the roster.
The edge rusher class is expected to be deep, which could allow Tennessee to strengthen its defensive front.
Impact of Diabate Signing
| Key Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Depth | Provides additional linebacker options |
| Experience | NFL game experience with Cleveland |
| Rotation Support | Helps reduce pressure on starters |
Adding Mohamoud Diabate gives the Titans more flexibility at linebacker as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With free agency moves already strengthening several areas of the roster, Tennessee will now turn its attention toward the 2026 NFL Draft to continue building depth across multiple positions.
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