The Tennessee Titans just started Phase 2 of their organized team activities (OTAs). After a chaotic draft and offseason, this important period gives them the opportunity to add talent to their roster. The Titans made significant moves to address key needs, selecting several players and signing experienced veterans to enhance their lineup.
Of all the picks in this year’s memorable draft, the most notable was Cam Ward — a young stud quarterback. He’ll have to contend hard for a place next to talented pass catchers Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor. The Titans focused on strengthening their defense, drafting Oluwafemi Oladejo as an outside linebacker. The team’s plan always included trading down in the fourth round. Trade down with a partner with comparable value. Their trade sends of 141 and 178 to the Baltimore Ravens mostly traded them more valued strategic depth.
Draft Selections Address Team Needs
The Titans made concerted efforts during the draft to address three critical areas: quarterback, receiving corps, and linebacker positions. By drafting Cam Ward, their intent was to beef up the quarterback room while still being competitive. Ward’s emergence may be aided by the signing of veteran Tyler Lockett, who was inked to a one-year, $4 million deal. On offense, he’ll likely take over the team’s slot position and is expected to bring a veteran presence and leadership to the team.
Besides Ward, Tennessee also went with Oluwafemi Oladejo as an outside linebacker, looking to shore up their defense. The selection of T’Vondre Sweat in the second round further underscores their commitment to enhancing the defensive line, which already features Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons.
“Length, power, speed — those were some of the things that we saw off the edge,” – Dave Ziegler
The addition of these players illustrates the Titans’ focus on creating a balanced and competitive roster for the upcoming season. Cedric Gray and James Williams battling tooth and nail for the top spots at linebacker. Every player out there is desperate to get a place on the roster.
Veteran Presence Strengthens Roster
Similar to the Titans, Washington has bolstered their draft picks by signing unrestricted free agent Cody Barton. This addition adds valuable veteran experience to the inside linebacker position. This decision is indicative of their broader approach of pairing inexperienced skill with veteran knowhow to form a harmonious whole.
Barton’s experience will be invaluable. Young players such as Otis Reese IV are up against Gray and Williams for that coveted playing time. Young fresh energy is now collaborating with the development and Sprawl Repair veteran leaders. Collectively, they should get the Titans ahead of the curve of this very fluid and constantly evolving professional football landscape.
“But we certainly have a lot of needs on the team right now.” – Borgonzi
Borgonzi’s acknowledgment of ongoing needs illustrates that while the draft has filled some gaps, there remains work to be done as training camp approaches. A successful incorporation of veterans such as Lockett and Barton will be indispensable as they show others the way.
Injury Recovery and Future Prospects
As they head toward training camp, the bumpy road is at least compounded by a host of issues with their players’ health. Most significantly, Treylon Burks, their first-round pick in 2022 who’s recovering from a torn ACL and won’t be back until training camp. His loss could change the entire dynamic of the receiving corps, requiring more from a rookie like Dike or Ayomanor.
Calvin Ridley, for better or worse, will not have his role changed and will keep playing on the Z spot on the perimeter. He’ll be a reliable target for whoever wins the QB job. As the roster continues to take shape, all eyes will be on how these players mesh together in team activities and beyond.
Restrepo capped his collegiate career as Miami’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. He brings an intriguing skill set to the team. His performance throughout OTAs will go a long way in determining his role, if any, in the Titans’ offense this season.
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