Jurrell Casey retires: Free agent defensive linemen still available?

There’s apparently still a lot of talent on the free agent market when it comes to interior defenders and ends. Which veterans remain unsigned?

He suited up for 10 NFL seasons, the vast majority of those with the Titans. Now Interior presence Jurrell Casey has made a decision when it comes to his football future, announcing his retirement this week.

The former USC product was a third-round pick by Tennessee in 2011 and spent nine seasons with the organization. He was dealt to the Broncos in 2020 but was limited to only three games.

"“My career, it was amazing, just to have the opportunity to play this game,” explained the standout defender via Ben Arthur of the Nashville Tennessean (courtesy of USA Today). “It was beautiful. I always tried to play to the best of my ability, and always considered it an honor."

Casey totaled an impressive 51 sacks and was named to five consecutive Pro Bowls from 2015-19. His versatility enabled him to play anywhere along the defensive front.

"“To be able to get drafted by Tennessee, and to be able to live out a lifetime dream is everything a young man from Long Beach, California could dream of. All the relationships that I made along the way, we had a brotherhood. And Tennessee, it was a great place to call home for me and my family.”"

The retirement of the 31-year-old veteran is a reminder that there are other defensive lineman still available to be signed (via Spotrac). In terms of inside performers, veterans such as eight-time Pro Bowler Geno Atkins, Kawann Short and Beau Allen (who did not play in 2020) are still on the open market.

In terms of ends, could pass rushers such as Trent Murphy, Olivier Vernon and Adrian Clayborn join a club sooner than later? All told, Casey was a solid performer during his days in Nashville and he will be missed. But what about some of these other experienced defenders? Will they be joining teams in the not-too-distant future?