2016 AFC South Offensive Preview: Tennessee Titans

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Here it is! Our preview of the Titans offense heading into 2016. We break down every position group on the offensive side of the ball, so you can be prepared when the Jaguars take on the Titans in 2016. 
By Zach Weeks - @zachweeks11

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WR: [C+] The Tennessee Titans had one significant issue with their offense in 2015 - their lack of playmakers in the passing game. This shortage resulted in only 25 passing touchdowns last year. However, their receiving core was bolstered in the offseason with the addition of rookie standout Tajae Sharp and veteran receiver Andre Johnson. Andre Johnson has been a positive addition to the depth chart in the preseason, but age and ability come into question as the regular season pushes on. The Titans acquired Rishard Mathews from the Dolphins, providing depth to the position group that also proved to be useful in the absence of Kendall Wright who is having trouble staying on the field this preseason. Many were surprised to hear that the Titans traded their leading receiver from 2015 Dorial Green-Beckham to the Eagles in exchange for offensive lineman Dennis Kelly, but they were sending a message to the rest of the team about what this coaching staff expects from players. Beckham was apparently not showing respectable effort in practice and pulling up early on routes in games which ultimately resulted in him playing for a new organization. The key thing to take away from the Titans’ front office’s effort, in regards to wide receivers in this year’s offseason, is the accumulation of depth at the position. I fully expect the Titans’ receiver group to be much improved this season.

TE: [B] The Titans, like the Jaguars, greatly value the tight-end position and for good reason. 2015 Pro Bowl tight end Delanie Walker’s value cannot be understated. He was their leading receiver with over 1,000 yards and 6 touchdowns last season. The Titans are not particularly deep at the position though which warrants only a grade of a B. Their backups at the position include veteran Anthony Fasano and Phillip Supernaw. It is imperative that Walker stays healthy or there will be significantly more pressure on their receiving corp to do better this year.

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RB: [A] By far the Titans best position and easily the most threatening duo of running backs in the AFC South. The Titans obtained DeMarco Murray from the Eagles in the offseason and drafted Heisman winner Derrick Henry in the draft, which most of you probably already know. What you probably don’t know is that the Titans have averaged 172 yards per game rushing in their first three preseason games. Murray and Henry have been tearing it up. The Titans have looked to get Henry the ball in complex ways; even having him run routes out of the full back spot. As most of us remember from Murray’s time as a Cowboy, if he has a big-bodied offensive line that creates holes, he can be extremely effective. Also, for all you fantasy football enthusiasts out there, Matthew Berry recommends getting Derrick Henry on every fantasy team you can, especially in the later rounds. My prediction is that this 6’3”, 250-pound running back will get quite a few goal line carries. Add in Bishop Sankey, the ultra quick third down back, and you have one the most dynamic backfields in the NFL. 

QB: [B+] Mariota, in my opinion, is the most efficient dual threat quarterback in the league behind Russell Wilson, but unlike Wilson he has the height and release of a prototype quarterback. His release is lightning-quick, which makes his pump fakes even more harmful. He can take off and run very quickly and get 10+ yards and a first down before the opposing secondary can react. Mariota still has some issues with interceptions and injuries plagued him last year leading to sub-par stats in terms of touchdowns and passing yards. In spite of that, I anticipate a much better season. His improved offensive line and running back talent will contribute positively to his efficiency and overall statistics.

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OL: [B+] The Tennessee Titans have adopted an offensive identity for this season as the bruising, power-run offense and are certainly equipped to do it. With an average weight of 315 pounds, the Titans have all the tools necessary to manhandle opposing defensive lines. We already have discussed the capabilities of their stellar running back group and their impressive preseason, but I would argue that this is in large part because of their offensive line. Chance Warmack (323 pounds) and Quinton Spain (330 pounds) look to be the starters at guard when the regular season rolls around. The Titans drafted Jack Conklin to fill their need at right tackle and it seems that his skill set meshes appropriately with Tennessee’s offensive identity and he has quickly come in and taken on the role of the starter. Taylor Lewan, Tennessee’s first round draft pick in 2014, has proven himself to be a capable left tackle while Ben Jones has also been successful at the center position. The Titans success in the run game opens up a wide variety of possibilities in the play action game, a facet of the game in which Mariota thrives. This will be the most successful offensive line unit in the AFC South if health permits.

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