After a disappointing 2023 season, the Tennessee Titans have made some changes this offseason. Most importantly, they fired head coach Mike Vrabel and replaced him with former Cincinnati Bengals Offensive Coordinator, Brian Callahan. Many fans are optimistic about this hire, but many positions must be addressed for the Titans to succeed in 2024. The Titans can retain some notable free agents to ensure a decent roster for next season. They also have the 2024 NFL Draft to obtain new talent and fill some roster holes. However, the Titans still have to resolve a glaring issue with their offensive line, despite spending a first-round pick last year to acquire offensive guard Peter Skoronski.
Titans Offensive Line Issues
The Titans have been unable to effectively move the ball downfield over the past two seasons, illustrated by their lackluster total offense ranking in 2022 and 2023. This statistic showcases the Titans’ offensive line issues and explains why they have lost 18 of their last 24 games. Running back Derrick Henry has been able to carry the offense for most of his career, but even his nearly 1,200 rushing yard season could not hide the poor offensive line play this year. Although Henry had a decent 2023 campaign, the passing game mightily suffered from a lack of protection all season. The Titans offensive line conceded 64 sacks through 17 games, third-most in the NFL. This total indicates that the Titans gave up nearly four sacks per game despite having the second-fewest passing attempts in the NFL.
One of the only highlights for the Titans’ offensive line was Skoronski, who showcased a lot of promise throughout his rookie season. Another minimal highlight was Titans center Aaron Brewer, who showcased his run-blocking prowess this year. However, Brewer was not nearly as effective in pass protection. Every other offensive lineman on the roster must showcase their progression throughout the offseason to keep their spot.
Two Solutions for the Offensive Line
Similar to the Titans’ 2023 NFL Draft strategy, the team could look for another offensive lineman with their early first-round pick. This is a risky solution due to the high variance of gems and busts found within each draft cycle. While the Titans chose well with Skoronski last year, they also have a history of drafting busts. These busts include offensive tackle Isaiah Wilson, who was drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft and only played one NFL game. Since that draft, the Titans have hired a new General Manager, Ran Carthon. This is important because Carthon drafted well in 2023, which bodes well for prospects. With numerous talented offensive linemen in this year’s draft class, the Titans will likely choose one with their seventh overall pick.
The Titans could also sign a top-tier offensive lineman during free agency, which could improve the position group faster. Offensive tackle Tyron Smith is arguably the best offensive lineman heading into the 2024 free-agency period and should have plenty of teams attempting to sign him. Smith has played with the Dallas Cowboys since entering the NFL in 2011, so signing him away from the Cowboys could be difficult. There is another offensive lineman that the Titans could sign to help their offense next season. New England Patriots offensive tackle Trent Brown is another highly rated free agent and allowed just three sacks all season. Both of these players would be upgrades and help the Titans perform better in 2024.
Main Photo: [Andrew Nelles/ The Tennessean]
