You don’t often see players as good as Taylor Lewan on the free agent market. However, after battling injuries for two of the past three seasons, the Tennessee Titans decided to part ways with the three-time Pro Bowler. While his health is definitely a question, the talent is still there and a healthy version of Taylor Lewan would still be a great fit on several teams.
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Top 5 Taylor Lewan Team Fits, Ranked
1. Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos need to fix their offense, and since they’re stuck with Russell Wilson, they might as well try to fix the offensive line. Thanks to the Wilson and Sean Payton trades, the team does not have much in terms of draft capital, so they’ll need to find their answer at tackle via free agency. Taylor Lewan is definitely a risky signing, but he has massive potential, and it should be easy to structure an incentive-laden contract that won’t have a high cap hit in 2023.
2. New York Jets
Whether it’s Aaron Rodgers or Derek Carr in 2023, the New York Jets need to get a better offensive line. Mekhi Becton will be back next year, and he will help, but this unit could use an upgrade at all five positions. As it is, the Jets offensive tackle position is the only thing holding this team back from serious contention if and when New York gets a better quarterback. The team shouldn’t put all their faith in Taylor Lewan, but he’s a great fit at a reasonable price.
3. Los Angeles Chargers
If any team knows the value of three starting-caliber offensive tackles, it’s the Los Angeles Chargers. Rashawn Slater is an All-Pro caliber player when healthy, and Jamaree Salyer played well during his rookie season. However, both players are better on the left side of the offensive line, and there is no depth behind either player. In a perfect world, the Chargers could sign Lewan to compete with Salyer, and may the best man win. If injuries struck for the second-straight year, Los Angeles could rest easy knowing that a starting-caliber tackle could come off the bench.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
Kenny Pickett showed some signs of life last year, but if the Steelers want him to continue his upwards trajectory, they’ll need to give him an offensive line. Pittsburgh’s front five didn’t exactly set the world on fire in the run game or the pass game and, if healthy, Taylor Lewan would easily be fit to start at tackle for this team. Taking too many hits can ruin a young quarterback, so Lewan’s presence could go a long time way in determining Pickett’s future in the NFL.
READ MORE: Steelers Free Agent Targets
5. New Orleans Saints
After one year in the league, Trevor Penning is still a complete unknown. The University of Northern Iowa product dominated lesser competition in college, and nobody knew if he’d be able to handle NFL-caliber players. Well, after one season, we still don’t know if he’s up to the task. Injuries limited the first-round pick to just six games and one start, so the team has no realistic way of knowing if he’s ready for a starting job.
Now, nobody is saying the Saints should completely give up on Penning after just one year. However, New Orleans should have a backup plan in case the Northern Iowa product isn’t up for the task. If Taylor Lewan is unable to secure a job as the unquestioned starter, he’d be a great fit with the Saints.
Main Photo: George Walker IV – USA Today Sports
