The Tennessee Titans face a pivotal decision reminiscent of the Cincinnati Bengals’ scenario from a few years back—do they bolster the offensive line by taking a tackle first, or do they aim to electrify their offense with a wide receiver? With key signings like Calvin Ridley and Tony Pollard, the Titans’ 2024 draft strategy will be critical. Here’s a comparative look at the potential paths:
Joe Alt Route:
- R1, Pick 7: Joe Alt, T, Notre Dame
PFF Grade: A
Alt offers a foundational piece to protect any quarterback and paves the way for Tony Pollard’s running game. - R2, Pick 38: Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
PFF Grade: A
A secondary boost to complement Kenneth Murray Jr., bringing A-grade coverage and tackling. - R4, Pick 106: Sione Vaki, S, Utah
PFF Grade: A
Vaki could form a formidable duo with Nubin, signaling a strengthened secondary. - R5, Pick 146: Isaac Guerendo, HB, Louisville
PFF Grade: B
A complement to Pollard, Guerendo could add depth to the running back room. - R6, Pick 182: Jaylen Harrell, ED, Michigan
PFF Grade: A-
A disruptive force to pair with Sebastian Joseph-Day, adding muscle to the defensive line. - R7, Pick 242: Taulia Tagovailoa, QB, Maryland
PFF Grade: C+
A developmental quarterback who could learn behind Mason Rudolph. - R7, Pick 252: Hayden Hatten, WR, Idaho
PFF Grade: B+
Even with Ridley, depth at receiver is crucial, and Hatten’s B+ potential could be a steal.
Rome Odunze Route:
- R1, Pick 7: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
PFF Grade: A+
A potential star receiver to line up opposite Calvin Ridley, providing a dynamic A+ graded threat. - R2, Pick 38: Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
PFF Grade: A
Same as above, a top-tier safety to solidify the defense. - R4, Pick 106: Matt Goncalves, T, Pittsburgh
PFF Grade: B+
Goncalves offers a B+ graded solution at tackle, a round 4 answer to the O-line needs. - R5, Pick 146: Mekhi Wingo, DI, LSU
PFF Grade: C+
Bringing interior strength to the defensive line, Wingo’s selection adds to the C+ depth.
Each subsequent pick for both routes continues to address different needs while reflecting the Titans’ draft philosophy of building through youth and talent. The grades suggest a strong future regardless of the route taken.
In the Joe Alt Route, the emphasis is on strengthening the core with an A grade overall, aligning with the free agency acquisitions to build a robust team from the line out. The Titans signed Ridley this offseason making the need at WR much less than the need to protect Will Levis. Still how long can DeAndre Hopkins stay at the top of his game?
Conversely, the Rome Odunze Route, also with an A overall, indicates a more explosive offensive strategy, maximizing the talents of Ridley and Pollard and potentially making a high-flying offense the identity of the Titans.
This strategic crossroads will define the Titans’ trajectory and could be the difference between a strong regular season and a deep playoff run. Fans are eagerly debating which route offers the best future for the team, considering the blend of young talent and veteran presence in Nashville.
In both scenarios, the Titans display a comprehensive plan for immediate improvement and future growth. With an overall A grade, the Titans’ mock drafts paint a picture of a team poised to make significant strides in the upcoming season. The debate continues: solidify the trenches or electrify the offense? The answer lies in Nashville’s vision for the future.
