The Tennessee Titans have signed former New England Patriots running back Dion Lewis to a four-year deal worth around $23 million. $11.5 of the contract is guaranteed. million Adam Schefter reported the news of the deal on Twiter.
Former Patriots’ RB Dion Lewis intends to sign a 4-year deal with Tennesee, source tells ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2018
The price seemed just too steep for the Patriots to match. Just like with Danny Amendola, the Patriots wanted to keep them around but wanted the two to take a pay cut. Lews and Amendola were both unwilling to take a pay cut and will both have nice paydays.
There is some caution that comes with Lewis. The 27-year-old running back suffered a broken leg in 2013 and tore an ACL in 2015 that caused him to miss much of the 2016 season. Lewis was able to play in all 16 games this year and only missed one practice during the 2017 campaign. This healthy year could have given the Titans confidence that Lewis will remain healthy for the duration of his new deal.
Lewis was a solid running back for the Patriots last season. He joined the Patriots in 2015 but never really got to showcase his skills due to a torn ACL. Lewis showed promise in 2017, rushing for 896 yards on 186 attempts and rushed for 6 touchdowns. He also had 32 receptions for 214 yards and 3 receiving touchdowns out of the backfield.
Lewis is the second former Patriot to sign with the Titans this offseason. Cornerback Malcolm Butler inked a huge five-year, $60 million deal this week.
Lewis will more than likely share snaps with Derrick Henry. Henry showed signs of improvement this past season behind Demarco Murry, who was released by the team. Lewis has the chance for a new start and has the ability to really show off his skills.
