The Tennessee Titans finally addressed the offensive line with the selection of Ohio State offensive tackle Nicholas Petit-Frere with the No. 69 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
The Former Buckeye started on both the left and right sides throughout his collegiate career. In 2020, he earned Second-Team All-Conference at right tackle for his stout play over seven starts during a shortened season.
According to Pro Football Focus, Petit-Frere played a total of 512 snaps (248 run blocking snaps, 264 pass blocking snaps) at right tackle and only allowed two quarterback hits, one quarterback hurry, and zero sacks.
Petit-Frere moved to the left side in 2021, where he was voted as a Second-Team All-American (Associated Press).
Ohio State held George Karlaftis to:
0 sacks
0 hurries
0 pressuresThe first time that's happened all season.
Nicholas Petit-Frere is pretty dang good.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) November 18, 2021
PFF gave the former All-American lineman a grade of 78.5 after he allowed 22 hurries, two sacks, and two quarterback hits on 768 snaps (453 pass-blocking snaps, 315 run-blocking snaps).
The former All-Conference lineman is an explosive and athletic tackle who has the potential to excel in a zone scheme like Tennessee’s with proper patience and grooming.
Petit-Frere must improve his overall play strength before he will be able to consistently survive on the NFL level, but there is a lot to be intrigued by with the Ohio State product.
Next guy up is Nicholas Petit-Frere (Ohio State OT #78). Have heard great things about his progress this season so I’m checking him out.
Impressive rep here as he latches onto the inside shoulder and drives the defender out of the rushing lane!pic.twitter.com/8zsa7PNAR1
— Ben Glassmire (@BenGlassmireNFL) October 22, 2021
He will likely join the starting competition for the right tackle spot; however, he may be more inclined to the swing tackle role and will likely be a legitimate starting candidate by 2023, if not sooner.
Overall, I really like the value of this pick, along with the player overall. So, for a positive change after these last 24 hours, I will be optimistic about this selection and will give the pick of the Titans’ new tackle a resounding passing grade.