New Dolphins DT Teair Tart: Never any issues with Titans until I asked for release
Teair Tart’s career is the inverse of if you can’t beat them, join them. He did beat the Dolphins, as a member of the Tennessee Titans on that infamous night in December, but still ended up joining them.
Whatever pleasure Tart, a defensive lineman, got out of the Titans rallying for a 28-27 stunner over the Dolphins was short-lived. The following week he asked for his release, triggering an acrimonious parting before he joined Houston for a couple of games. He then became a free agent and returned to the region where he stood out for Florida International University, signing with the Dolphins.
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Once Tart was gone from Tennessee, he was painted as a problem player whose attitude and effort didn’t match the culture. It’s a serious accusation Tart wanted to clear up Tuesday in talking with reporters who cover the Dolphins.
“I was in Tennessee four years,” he said. “You know, I never had work-ethic questions or work-ethic issues until I asked for a release.”
For any Dolphins fans wondering whether Tart will give an honest effort, he added: “They expect me to be competitive, spirited and really get after it and compete. And you know, I’m really just excited for a new beginning.”
Without naming then-Titans coach Mike Vrabel, a former Patriots linebacker, Tart implied he had no choice but to go full speed throughout his time in Tennessee.
“Coming from a (Bill) Belichick situation, you’ve got to play hard,” Tart said. “You’ve got to practice hard.”
Tart said it was his call to exit Tennessee. He asked for his release and it was quickly granted.
“I think I just needed the culture change,” he said. “I think it was just better to not be a part of that situation anymore.”
Tart, 27, was undrafted out of FIU but had earned a starting role in his second year with the Titans. He had 34 tackles, five tackles for loss and seven QB hits in 2022. Last season, he played 13 games for the Titans and Texans and had eight tackles for loss. Pro Football Focus graded him 85th among interior defenders.
Dolphins reporter Hal Habib can be reached at hhabib@pbpost.com. Follow him on social media @gunnerhal.
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This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Dolphins DT Teair Tart: Never any issues with Titans until I wanted out
