Football Diner 2008 Team Reviews / Previews
Tennessee Titans
by Paul Hopkins
28/6/2008
 
Overview
 
On the back of a bruising running game and strong defence, in particular from the defensive line, the Tennessee Titans made it to the playoffs in 2007 before their offensive limitations proved too much for them in the face of game that was their's for the taking in San Diego. As much of this achievement was testimony to the skill and acumen of Head Coach Jeff Fisher, the Titans still needed an upgrade on the field. In some ways this hasn't been quite forthcoming. Therefore, questions have to be asked as to whether the run to the post-season in 2007 was an aberration or whether it was the beginning of a new era of success.
 
Quarterbacks
 
The future of the franchise rests squarely in the hands and legs of Vince Young. The all-rushing, hugely hyped quarterback out of Texas regressed in many instances in 2007 as people learnt to limit his rushing capacity. Still coming to terms with the league, he still offers a huge upside for the team, and this could prove a critical year. Mike Heimerdinger has returned to see if what he worked with Steve McNair can work with VY. Of course, Vince is not helped by his poor receivers, which is still a position of need for this team that was not addressed, Much as it pains me to say it about my boy, I can't give him anymore than this.
Grade: C
 
Running Backs
 
Rushing appears to be all that the Titans can do, particularly when you consider that it was a strong point last year, which they added to with the first overall pick. Lendale White, whilst a little on the heavy side and prone to injury offers a brusing style which has now got a perfect compliment. We mustn't also forget the role of another former Longhorn, and Afghan veteran, Ahmard Hall, who plays tough and has a critical role in the bruising Titans rush game. First round draft pick, Chris Johnson (East Carolina) offers something different. Frightening, truly frightening, speed. If you take out the glaring omission at receiver, Johnson was an excellent choice for the Titans, albeit a bit of a luxury. He offers a beautiful contrast to the pound and ground approach offered by his counterparts. He also offers huge potential catching out of the backfield, and could even offer something at WR positions to help out his QB.
Grade: B+
 
Receivers
 
Basically, it's a weakness. And it's glaringly obvious. The Titans went into the draft surely knowing what the rest of us thought – that Vince Young needed a big target. After passing over all the receivers in the draft, they ended up with Lavelle Hawkins out of California in the fourth round, who, looks on the surface similar to what they already have. Roydell Williams is probably the best of the bunch, Justin McCareins is steady but unspectacular, Justin Gage might not even be that and mega bust Mike Williams has arrived to see if he can actually live up to his USC hype. Major question marks have to continue to exist. Chris Johnson and Alge Crumpler may alleviate the pressure but the lack of a deep threat hurts this team.
Grade: E
 
Tight Ends
 
Vince Young is going to rely heavily on Bo Scaife and FA acquisition, Alge Crumpler. Crumpler, whilst he reached the end of the road in Atlanta, offers a reliable target, particularly in the red zone where the Titans have to become a team that converts field position into touchdowns rather than relying on field goals and strong defence. Rookie Craig Stevens will slot into the line-up, bringing his blocking ability to the strong rushing game.
Grade: B-
 
Offensive Line
 
Key for the Titans this off-season was locking down both tackles to new deals, and they succeeded in this. Michael Roos and David Stewart play an integral role in the rushing game of the Titans and should be a feature for this team for years to come. Jacob Bell left for St Louis, to be replaced by Jake Scott from the Colts. Kevin Mawae still anchors the line from centre and is still a strong team leader, although at 37 his time is invariably drawing to a close. Leroy Harris is one to watch, and may emerge as the starting right guard. again.
Grade: B
 
Defensive Line
 
Last season the defensive line for the Titans was a particular strength. Albert Haynesworth and Kyle vanden Bosch between them However, Haynesworth was in a contract year. This off-season they've added veteran Javon Kearse, who ran out of steam in Philly but if he gets back to his old form then it opens up the other two to be single-teamed; a recipe for another strong D line showing. Jason Jones was added in the draft and he offers an immediate pass-rushing ability, as does the returning Bryce Fisher. The line certainly shouldn't be worse than it was last season.
Grade: A-
 
Linebackers
 
Keith Bulluck is long established as one of the best linebackers in football, and continues to prove this year on year. David Thornton, since coming over from the Colts has been a solid and reliable contributor. Ryan Fowler wasn't necessarily an MLB in Dallas and probably is the weak link. 6th round draftee Stanford Keglar offers a lot of intrigue and it will be worth watching to see how he fits into the line-up.
Grade: B
 
Secondary
 
Adam Jones is officially gone. But in reality, he was gone last year. Michael Griffin was tried at cornerback in his rookie season, however it appears likely that he will revert back to his college position of safety this year, partnering Chris Hope. This offers the Titans a sound foundation. Nick Harper came over, like Scott from Indianapolis and his veteran presence should assist emerging CB's Cortland Finnegan and Reynaldo Hill.
Grade: B-
 
Special Teams
 
In Rob Bironas and Craig Hentrich, the Titans are well set in the kicking positions. Bironas in particular, had an outstanding 2007, resulting in his appearance at the Pro Bowl. The Titans struggled in the return game this season without PacMan Jones, but Chris Johnson offers immediate potential to spark this back into life.
Grade: B+
 
Coaching
 
Jeff Fisher never ceases to amaze what he can do with the rosters he assembles every year. Question marks have to remain whether the consistent lack of skill players being brought in, is down to him or his GM, but year on year he brings out the best in his players. The reins need to be loosened to allow Young to shine, as now in his third year it is time for the conservative approach to become a thing of the past. Despite this, Fisher remains one of the best, but most under-rated coaches in the game.
Grade: B+
 
Outlook
 
The Titans looks like having another season as has become the norm in recent times, playing tough every week, hanging around in games and snatching them through flashes of brilliance. If Vince Young performs to the best of his abilities, with a game plan utilising his unique skill set and those of his speedy new first round pick, Chris Johnson, set alongside the grinding nature of the rest of the offence, then the Titans may find themselves back in the post-season. It's just a shame they don't have the receiving corps to match.