2021 NFL Offseason: Tennessee Titans

Tennessee Titans (Last Year: 11-5)

2021 NFL Season Preview:

Veteran Additions:
RB Brian Hill, WR Julio Jones, WR Josh Reynolds, OT Kendall Lamm, DE Denico Autry, OLB Bud Dupree, CB Janoris Jenkins, CB Kevin Johnson.
Early Draft Picks:
CB Caleb Farley, OT Dillon Radunz, LB Monty Rice, CB Elijah Molden, WR Dez Fitzpatrick, DE Rashad Weaver. Titans Rookie Forecast
Offseason Losses:
WR Corey Davis, WR Adam Humphries, TE Jonnu Smith, OT Dennis Kelly, DT DaQuan Jones, OLB Jadeveon Clowney, CB Malcolm Butler, CB Adoree Jackson, CB Tye Smith, S Desmond King, S Kenny Vaccaro, K Stephen Gostkowski.

2021 Tennessee Titans Offense:
An offense quarterbacked by Ryan Tannehill had never carried a team prior to 2020, but that’s exactly what transpired this past season. The Titans’ offense ranked fourth in points and second in yardage, while the defense was 24th in points and 28th in yards surrendered. Tannehill threw 33 touchdowns compared to just seven interceptions, while Derrick Henry bulldozed through opposing defenses for 2,027 rushing yards.

Prior to June, it was fair to wonder, however, if the duo would have the same sort of success in 2021. There were several reasons to believe why the team would suffer a decline. First and foremost, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is gone. Smith, who took the Falcons’ head-coaching job, did a terrific job of getting the most out of his players. It’s unlikely that his replacement, Todd Downing, will be able to do something similar.

Second, the Titans have some turnover on the offensive line. They’ve lost three right tackles in the span of two offseasons, and that includes last year’s starter, Dennis Kelly. Second-round rookie Dillon Radunz figures to win the job, but nothing is a guarantee, especially after last year’s first-round disaster, Isaiah Wilson. Right tackle could be a weakness, meaning there would be some major pass-protection issues on the right side of the offensive line, as Nate Davis is a liability in that regard despite his ability to blast open big lanes for Henry.

There’s definitely a question mark regarding both tackle spots. Taylor Lewan is one of the better blind-side protectors when he’s healthy, but that hasn’t been a very common occurrence. Lewan missed 11 games last year after being absent for four contests the year before. Now 30, Lewan’s health could continue to decline, so the Titans should definitely not count on having him on the field for all 17 games in 2021. Lewan will theoretically start next to regressing 33-year-old Rodger Saffold and then center Ben Jones, who is coming off a solid 2020 campaign.

And finally, the Titans lost some play-makers this offseason. Corey Davis, who had been seen as a first-round bust entering this past season, finally stepped up and had a strong year. Davis, however, signed with the Jets, so the Titans had a big hole across from A.J. Brown. Granted, Brown is emerging as one of the better receivers in the NFL, but depth at the position was sorely lacking.

That completely changed in the wake of the Julio Jones trade. The Titans acquired Jones for second- and fourth-round picks in early June. The move seems great on paper to many, but the fact that Jones is a 32-year-old, injury-prone player cannot be ignored. He’ll play well when healthy, and he’ll take attention away from Henry, but he wasn’t the same player last year. Granted, he was constantly banged up, but given his age, that’s a trend that’s likely to continue.

2021 Tennessee Titans Defense:
As indicated earlier by the ghastly rankings, Tennessee’s defense struggled immensely last year. The team was miserable at generating pressure on the quarterback and consequently couldn’t stop the pass at all. Numerous upgrades were needed to fix these problems this offseason.

The Titans didn’t add that many players, but the biggest name was Bud Dupree. The long-time Steeler was having a nice 2020 season when he suffered a torn ACL in early December. It remains to be seen if Dupree will be available to start the year, given that this injury occurred so late this past season. Also, it’s fair to wonder if Dupree will be the same sort of threat he was in Pittsburgh without T.J. Watt commanding so much attention. Dupree was considered a first-round bust before Watt burst onto the scene and became the point of emphasis for opposing offenses. There’s no one remotely near Watt’s caliber on the Titans. The starter across from Dupree will be Harold Landry, who notched just 5.5 sacks in 2020.

Tennessee signed three other defensive free agents, two of whom were Janoris Jenkins and Kevin Johnson. The team needed all the help it could get in its porous secondary, but it doesn’t seem as though Jenkins and Johnson will provide a solution. Jenkins was a mediocre performer last year and could regress further because he turns 33 in October. Johnson is a fine slot corner when healthy, but he’s constantly injured. He has missed 32 out of 80 possible games over the past five seasons. The good news is that the Titans have two young cornerbacks, first-round rookie Caleb Farley and 2020 second-rounder Kristian Fulton to challenge for the starting jobs. The bad news is that Fulton struggled last year, while Farley has severe back problems that could shorten his career.

The best player in Tennessee’s secondary, by far, is Kevin Byard. The elite safety is often undervalued, judging by his frequent exclusion from the NFL’s top-100 list. Last year’s fourth-round pick, Amani Hooker, did a passable job across from Byard when given the opportunity later in the year. Third-round rookie Elijah Molden will compete for snaps.

Excluding Byard, Jeffery Simmons is Tennessee’s best defensive player. The 2019 first-round selection was the only player in the front seven who did anything this past season. Meanwhile, the Titans’ final defensive signing was Denico Autry, who was a solid role player in Indianapolis’ defense last year. Simmons and Autry will sandwich nose tackle Daylon Mack, who is likely to struggle.

The linebacking corps is at least solid. Jayon Brown tends to miss tackles, but he’s at least excellent in coverage. Rashaan Evans, meanwhile, hasn’t quite lived up to his first-round billing. He hasn’t been poor, but he also hasn’t performed like the player Tennessee thought it would be getting. Third-round rookie Monty Rice could challenge him for snaps.

2021 Tennessee Titans Schedule and Intangibles:
The Titans will be rolling with Tucker McCann as their kicker heading into 2021. It’s unclear how he’ll fare, but he can’t be worse than Stephen Gostkowski was last year.

Punter Brett Kern was 27th in net average in 2016. He improved all the way up to first in that category in 2017. He finished eighth the following year and fourth in 2019. He didn’t qualify for the leaderboard in 2020 because he missed some time as a result of being on the Covid list.

The Titans scored one touchdown on returns and didn’t allow any to the opposition.

The Titans have a very difficult non-divisional schedule. They have a first-place slate, and they’ll also have to deal with the NFC West.

2021 Tennessee Titans Rookies:
Go here for the Titans Rookie Forecast, a page with predictions like which rookie will bust and which rookie will become a solid starter.

2021 Tennessee Titans Positional Rankings (1-5 stars):

Quarterbacks	Offensive Line	Secondary
Running Backs	Defensive Line	Special Teams
Receivers	Linebackers	Coaching

2021 Tennessee Titans Analysis: The Titans are due for some regression in 2021, despite the Julio Jones trade. Their offense endured some key departures detailed earlier, while their woeful defense hasn’t made the necessary adjustments to improve substantially. Mike Vrabel is a good coach who will keep his team competitive, but wins will be tougher to come by this upcoming season.

Projection: 9-8 (2nd in AFC South)

2020 Projection: 9-7. 2020 Actual Result: 11-5.
2019 Projection: 7-9. 2019 Actual Result: 9-7.
2018 Projection: 7-9. 2018 Actual Result: 9-7.
2017 Projection: 11-5. 2017 Actual Result: 9-7.
2016 Projection: 6-10. 2016 Actual Result: 9-7.

NFL Draft Team Grade: B- Grade

Goals Entering the 2021 NFL Draft: The Titans made some adjustments to their defense this offseason, but they still have plenty of holes on that side of the ball. They must fix those, all while plugging some weaknesses on offense like receiver and right tackle.

2021 NFL Draft Accomplishments: Tennessee had a rather steady draft. It filled needs, and five of its eight picks scored a grade in the “B” range. This included the first-round choice, Caleb Farley. There’s no doubt that Farley is incredibly talented, but he’s a big injury risk. He would have been a top-10 pick if he had no health issues.

Two of the Titans’ second-day choices received similar grades. Dillon Radunz and Monty Rice received “B” grades, as they should be able to serve as upgrades at right tackle and linebacker, respectively. The lone exception was Elijah Molden, a small and slow cornerback who could have trouble contributing positively in the NFL.

I had only one real issue with the Titans’ draft, and that was their decision to trade up for Dez Fitzpatrick in the fourth round. I think Fitzpatrick could be a decent receiver in the NFL, but there was no reason to surrender any resources for him. Doing so prevented the Titans from finding another potential needed upgrade to their barren roster. Otherwise, Tennessee did just fine on draft weekend.

NFL Draft Individual Grades:

22. Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech – B- Grade
This is another pick that is incredibly difficult to grade. Caleb Farley would have been in the same pantheon as Jaycee Horn and Patrick Surtain if he didn’t have any medical concerns. Unfortunately, Farley was one of the riskiest players in this class in regard to health. If he can remain on the field, he’ll be a shutdown cornerback for the Titans. However, there’s a decent chance he won’t be able to stay on the field at all. Again, players like Farley and Jaelan Phillips often fall, so I’m surprised that didn’t happen.

53. Dillon Radunz, OT, Notre Dame – B Grade
The Titans have lost three right tackles in the span of two offseasons, so this was a position they needed to address. This is fine value for Dillon Radunz, but the one concern I have is that Radunz won’t have the length to stay at tackle, so he may have to move inside.

92. Monty Rice, LB, Rice – B Grade
The Titans needed a linebacker. Then again, they needed to address every single position on defense. Monty Rice is a solid linebacker prospect I’ve been mocking around the middle of the third round, so I like this value for Tennessee.

100. Elijah Molden, CB, Washington – C Grade
The Titans are filling a need. Then again, everything is a need for them on defense. This includes slot cornerback in the wake of Adoree Jackson’s departure. Elijah Molden is a gritty and tough cornerback, but he’s small and slow, which doesn’t bode well for him. I had him in the fifth round.

109. Dez Fitzpatrick, WR, Louisville – C- Grade
I wouldn’t have minded if the Titans drafted Dez Fitzpatrick with their natural pick in the fourth round, but I don’t get why they moved up for him. There are several quality receivers still remaining, and I don’t think Fitzpatrick stood out from the rest of them. Fitzpatrick was great in the Senior Bowl, but I don’t think that warranted this sort of move, even if it fills the void that Corey Davis’ departure created.

135. Rashad Weaver, DE, Pittsburgh – A+ Grade
The Titans signed Bud Dupree, but still needed to find an edge rusher because they couldn’t apply any pressure on the quarterback last year. Rashad Weaver is a second-round talent who fell because of his injury history. He’s very athletic and possesses high upside, so I love this selection.

205. Racey McMath, WR, LSU – B Grade
I never had Racey McMath in my mock drafts, but he nearly made the cut at the end. McMath is a big receiver, so he could be used as a possible replacement for Corey Davis. There’s some upside here, so this is a fine pick.

215. Brady Breeze, S, Oregon – B- Grade
Safety was a big need for the Titans entering the offseason. They didn’t address it until now, but I’m not sure if Brady Breeze is the answer. His size and athleticism are both mediocre.

232.

Follow @walterfootball for updates.

Season Summary:
The Titans were one of the final unbeatens in 2020, beginning the year 5-0. However, they had an underwhelming finish to the year, losing in the opening round of the playoffs to the Ravens after blowing a 10-0 lead.

Offseason Moves:

Titans sign RB Brian Hill

Titans sign WR Josh Reynolds

Titans sign CB Kevin Johnson

Titans sign CB Janoris Jenkins

Titans cut CB Adoree Jackson

Titans sign OT Kendall Lamm

Titans sign DE/OLB Bud Dupree

Titans sign DE Denico Autry

Dolphins acquire OT Isaiah Wilson from Titans

Team Needs:

Two Edge Rushers: Tennessee’s pass rush was atrocious last year. The team needs two new players on the edge to help in this regard. Signed Bud Dupree
Linebacker: Jayon Brown is about to hit free agency. He’ll be difficult to replace if he’s not re-signed. Re-signed Jayon Brown
Wide Receiver: Corey Davis is an impending free agent, and the Titans may not want to pay him because he was so inconsistent earlier in his career. Signed Josh Reynolds
Two Cornerbacks: The Titans will have to re-sign Desmond King as well. If they can’t, a new slot corner will be needed. Replacing Malcolm Butler is a priority as well. Signed Janoris Jenkins and Kevin Johnson
Offensive Tackle: Isaiah Wilson barely played as a rookie. Tennessee may want to find an insurance policy in case he’s a huge bust. Signed Kendall Lamm
Defensive Tackle: DaQuan Jones is another free agent who should be re-signed. Signed Denico Autry
Quarterback: The Titans should consider developing a quarterback behind Ryan Tannehill.
Kicker: Stephen Gostkowski is entering free agency as well.

Follow me @walterfootball for updates.

2021 NFL Free Agent Signings:

Bud Dupree, DE/OLB, Steelers. Age: 28.
Signed with Titans

The Steelers really missed Bud Dupree down the stretch, as they began losing without him. He logged eight sacks in 11 games, and he has 19.5 sacks in the past two years.
Kevin Johnson, CB, Browns. Age: 29.
Signed with Titans (1 year)

Normally a quality slot cornerback, Kevin Johnson struggled a bit in 2020 because of nagging injuries. He’s likely to bounce back next year.
Janoris Jenkins, CB, Saints. Age: 32.
Signed with Titans

Janoris Jenkins did a great job of reviving his career in New Orleans after an ugly finish with the Giants. However, he turns 33 in October, so regression is coming very soon.
Denico Autry, DE/DT, Colts. Age: 31.
Signed with Titans (3 years, $21.5 million)

Denico Autry is a jack-of-all-trades player who can be used in multiple spots on the defensive line.
Josh Reynolds, WR, Rams. Age: 26.
Signed with Titans

Josh Reynolds has done well as the Rams’ third receiver ever since Brandin Cooks left the team. He caught 52 passes for 618 yards in 2020.
Kendall Lamm, OT, Browns. Age: 29. — Signed with Browns (2 years, $8.5 million)
Brian Hill, RB, Falcons. Age: 25. — Signed with Titans

Tennessee Titans Free Agents:

Salary Cap: TBA.

Jayon Brown, LB, Titans. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Titans (1 year, $5.25 million)

Jayon Brown is an excellent linebacker, particularly when it comes to coverage. He’s only 26, so he should be able to keep improving his game.
Jadeven Clowney, DE/OLB, Titans. Age: 28.
Signed with Browns (1 year)

Jadeveon Clowney was a disappointment for the Titans, failing to record a sack in 2020. He has yet to notch double-digit sacks throughout his career. He’s overrated as a pass rusher, but plays very well against the run.
Adoree Jackson, CB, Titans. Age: 25.
Signed with Giants (3 years, $39 million)

Tennessee’s strategy of cutting Adoree Jackson makes very little sense. Sure, he’s been limited to 14 games the past two years, but Jackson is a supremely talented cornerback who won’t turn 26 until mid-September. He could bounce back with some dominant seasons, and I’m sure teams will be very interested in his versatility.
Desmond King, S/CB, Titans. Age: 26.
Signed with Texans (1 year)

Desmond King is a talented player who can literally play everywhere in the secondary. He’s also a good return specialist. He’s a valuable player to have on a roster because of his flexibility.
Jonnu Smith, TE, Titans. Age: 26.
Signed with Patriots (4 years, $50 million)

Jonnu Smith has loads of potential, but he hasn’t quite lived up to it. He’s played well – 41 catches, 448 yards, eight touchdowns in 2020 – but his numbers should be better. He’s only 26, so he should continue to improve.
Stephen Gostkowski, K, Titans. Age: 37.
Stephen Gostkowski got off to a rough start in 2020, but he finished strongly. He was 18-of-26 overall, but hit 7-of-8 tries from 50-plus.
Corey Davis, WR, Titans. Age: 26.
Signed with Jets (3 years, $37.5 million)

Corey Davis was seen as a huge bust heading into 2020, but he bounced back with a strong season. It might be difficult to trust him, but there’s no denying his upside.
DaQuan Jones, DT, Titans. Age: 29.
Signed with Panthers

DaQuan Jones is a solid, jack-of-all-trades defensive lineman who should have a couple more quality years remaining in the pros.
Malcolm Butler, CB, Titans. Age: 31.
Signed with Cardinals

Malcolm Butler is a solid cornerback, but he didn’t quite live up to his 5-year contract, so he was cut for financial purposes. He just turned 31, so a decline is coming soon.
Anthony Firkser (RFA), TE, Titans. Age: 26.
Re-signed with Titans (1 year)

Anthony Firkser played well as Tennessee’s second tight end last year. He even played in the slot when Adam Humphries were sidelined.
Kenny Vaccaro, S, Titans. Age: 30.
Kenny Vaccaro was once a solid safety, but he has declined in recent years. Now 30, Vaccaro figures to get worse in the near future.
Dennis Kelly, OT, Titans. Age: 31.
Signed with Packers

Dennis Kelly was a solid right tackle for the Titans last year, particularly in run blocking. He just turned 31, but he should be a halfway decent starter or top backup for a couple more seasons.
Adam Humphries, WR, Titans. Age: 28. — Signed with Redskins
Ty Sambrailo, OT, Titans. Age: 29. — Re-signed with Titans
Tye Smith, CB, Titans. Age: 28.
Kalif Raymond, WR, Titans. Age: 27. — Signed with Titans (1 year)
D’Onta Foreman (RFA), RB, Titans. Age: 25.
Jack Crawford, DE, Titans. Age: 32.
MyCole Pruitt, TE, Titans. Age: 29. — Signed with 49ers
Geoff Swaim, TE, Titans. Age: 27. — Re-signed with Titans (1 year)
Will Compton, LB, Titans. Age: 31.
Nick Dzubnar, LB, Titans. Age: 30.
Marshall Newhouse, OT, Titans. Age: 32.
Darren Bates, LB, Titans. Age: 30.
Senorise Perry, RB, Titans. Age: 29.
Chris Milton, CB, Titans. Age: 28.