Titans NFL Draft Daily (Feb. 7): A Deep Offensive Line Class Offers Tennessee Interesting Options
The 2024 NFL Draft class is loaded with quality offensive lineman. One plan for the Tennessee Titans could be to prioritize blocking and pass protection in the draft while looking for cornerbacks and wide receivers in later rounds or through free agency.
Nashville — Rebuilding an offensive line is never fun. If there is one bright spot for the Tennessee Titans, it is that the 2024 NFL Draft class provides an excellent opportunity to discover more pass protectors for quarterback Will Levis.
Left tackle is the obvious worry, and most mock drafts have the Titans picking Notre Dame’s Joe Alt with the seventh choice. If not Alt, Penn State’s Olu Fashanu is likely to join Tennessee. Either guy is a Day 1 starter in the NFL, particularly with the Titans.
While Tennessee has other position problems, primarily at wide out and cornerback, there is a chance the Titans will bulk up on offensive linemen during the draft.
It may be a sensible strategy. According to Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com, this is an extraordinarily skilled draft class for clubs trying to restructure their front lines.
“If you need to remake your offensive line, this draft is going to provide that opportunity,” he added. “Talent and depth exists to make a major impact next year.”
Following a strong rookie season, left guard Peter Skoronski is perhaps the only player on Tennessee’s offensive line that is regarded untouchable heading into the 2024 season. All other positions are fair game.
If coach Brian Callahan and general manager Ran Carthon prioritize the offensive line, they will have several possibilities in addition to Alt and Fashanu.
Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson has been praised for his versatility. He received high praise at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, when he won numerous reps at center while also rotating between right and left guard.
He may have played his way into the first round. But if he’s available at No. 38, the Titans might give the former Duck substantial consideration.
Guard Cooper Beebe from Kansas State is another name to watch in the second round. He was named Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year twice and is another candidate who might compete for a starting position right away.
According to Pro Football Network, Beebe is the class’s No. 6 interior offensive lineman. His guard experience would be a valuable asset to Tennessee, especially if he could get the position on the other side of Skoronski.
It is quite early in this process. Tennessee’s plans could change a dozen times between now and the NFL Draft in late April. However, it would not be shocking if the Titans signed as many quality linemen as possible.
Yes, the Titans have significant needs at wide receiver and cornerback. However, there are typically more of those guys available in the latter rounds of the draft. There are several great free agents to consider for both positions. NFL teams can begin signing free agents on March 13.
Tennessee needs quick assistance on the front lines. Loading up on linemen to improve competition and add excellent depth is a sound plan, particularly in this class.
In addition, if Levis has time to remain in the pocket and look for an open guy, Tennessee’s existing receivers may be more productive.
