As the Tennessee Titans gear up for the 2024 NFL season, they face a mix of optimism and concern. Pro Football Focus recently ranked them as the 25th best roster, highlighting both their strengths and weaknesses. Let’s delve into what makes this team tick and where they need to improve to achieve success.
Biggest Strength: Wide Receiver Corps
In 2023, the Titans made significant moves to bolster their wide receiver corps, providing young quarterback Will Levis with a plethora of weapons. The additions of DeAndre Hopkins, Calvin Ridley, and Tyler Boyd, alongside Treylon Burks, Kyle Phillips, and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, give Levis ample targets to elevate the passing game. With Hopkins, Ridley, and Boyd forming a formidable trio, complemented by the versatility and potential of Burks, Phillips, and Westbrook-Ikhine, the Titans boast one of the most talented receiving units in the league.
Biggest Weakness: Front Seven
Despite their offensive firepower, the Titans’ front seven remains a concern. Jeffery Simmons had a subpar season, and outside of him, the pass rush lacks impact players. Arden Key and Harold Landry have yet to reach their full potential, while the linebacker corps is thin, relying on unproven starters like Kenneth Murray Jr. and Jack Gibbens. With Simmons needing to return to his dominant form and Key and Landry stepping up as consistent pass rush threats, the Titans must address their front seven deficiencies to compete effectively in the AFC.
X-Factor: QB Will Levis
The Titans’ success hinges on the development of second-year quarterback Will Levis. While he showed promise in his rookie season, inconsistency plagued his performances. With a revamped receiving corps and improved offensive line, Levis has the tools to make a significant leap in production and lead the Titans to success. However, his ability to minimize turnovers and deliver consistent performances will be crucial in determining the team’s fortunes in 2024. If Levis can elevate his game and establish himself as a franchise quarterback, the Titans’ offense has the potential to be one of the most explosive in the league.
Rookie to Watch: DT T’Vondre Sweat
Despite concerns surrounding his conditioning and off-field issues, T’Vondre Sweat was drafted in the second round to bolster the Titans’ defensive line. His presence as a space-clogger could alleviate pressure on the rest of the defense and elevate the unit’s performance. With his size, strength, and disruptive ability, Sweat has the potential to make an immediate impact and solidify the Titans’ defensive front. If he can overcome his off-field issues and stay committed to his development, Sweat could emerge as a key contributor for the Titans in his rookie season.
Over/Under Win Total: Over
With the talent assembled on offense and improvements made to the offensive line, the Titans are poised to exceed expectations. However, much rides on Levis’ development, and the defense must step up to support him. If Levis thrives and the defense holds its own, the Titans could surpass their projected win total and contend for playoff contention. With a favorable schedule and the potential for key players to step up, the Titans have the opportunity to surprise many and establish themselves as contenders in the AFC South.
As the Titans embark on the 2024 season, they face both challenges and opportunities. With a potent offense led by Will Levis and a promising rookie class, the Titans have the potential to exceed expectations and make a splash in the AFC South. However, addressing weaknesses in the front seven will be crucial to their success. Only time will tell if the Titans can rise to the occasion and fulfill their potential in the upcoming season.
