The Tennessee Titans made a surprising move on Tuesday, with the team announcing it has waived linebacker Monty Rice.
A 2021 third-round pick, Rice appeared in all 12 games this year but played mostly on special teams after failing to grab a starting role out of training camp.
The 24-year-old did see more snaps on defense in recent weeks and looked to be ascending, at least in terms of playing time, but his snaps took a dip in Week 13.
While he provided a speed upgrade as compared to starter Jack Gibbens, Rice didn’t do much with his increased snaps and never panned out overall during his two-plus seasons with the team.
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The move is surprising because Rice still has one more year left on his rookie deal after 2023 and at least could’ve continued to provide help on special teams, if nothing else.
However, clearly the Titans felt it was time to part ways with the Georgia product, who will now go to waivers, where he can be claimed on Wednesday. If he goes unclaimed, he can sign with any team.
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