With the 2021 NFL Draft over and the schedule officially being released, it’s time for my third annual 32 part series where the top three questions will be posed for each NFL team. Here are those three questions for the Tennessee Titans.
Be sure to check out all of Heller’s Three Burning Questions.
Can Derrick Henry Break the Single Season Rushing Record?
Defending two-time NFL rushing champion is coming off a season where he became just the eighth player to rush for over 2,000 yards. With the benefit of an added 17th regular game to break Eric Dickerson‘s single-season mark that has stood since 1984, Henry has a shot. The number of carries he warrants in the offense, combined with the frequency that Henry eclipses the 150 rushing yard mark in a game, the elusive record that has been a long shot for those, including himself, who have tried to reach and pass the plateau, is realistically in his grasp.
Has the Defense Improved Enough?
The Titans’ defense has spent the last two seasons without a consistent pass rush. The team last season added Vic Beasley and Jadeveon Clowney to solidify that need. Neither guy made it to the end of the season. Beasley was cut around the middle of the season. Clowney, the most coveted free defensive agent in the offseason, who finally signed with the Titans, ended the season on injured reserve but wasn’t much of a factor before getting injured. The Titans added former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Bud Dupree in free agency despite coming off of a torn ACL.
The secondary will be the issue as both Malcolm Butler and Adoree Jackson were salary-cap casualties. The Titans added veteran cornerback Janoris Jenkins and drafted Caleb Farley out of Virginia Tech with their first-round pick, to help fill the void. The duo joins last season’s rookie Kristian Fulton, who was hampered last season by a nagging knee injury. However, their success all depends on the pass rush outside of defensive end Jeffery Simmons upfront. It is some comfort knowing the offense can put points on the scoreboard effectively and efficiently.
Will the Passing Game be Consistent Again?
The Titans lost both wide receiver Corey Davis and tight end Jonnu Smith to free agency. The loss of Smith will affect the Titans more as they added former Rams receivers Josh Reynolds and LSU receiver Racey McMath in the draft to make up for the Davis loss. The team is also, with the encouragement of their star receiver A.J. Brown, reportedly on the shortlist of Atlanta Falcons receiver Julio Jones landing spots. The seven-time Pro Bowl selection has been adamant that he wants out of Atlanta. That would make the Titans passing offense among the top five in the NFL.
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