The Tennessee Titans had a rough season that ended with a 6-11 record and no playoffs, but the team did get some encouraging performances from its 2023 draft picks.
Tennessee’s first three picks in last year’s draft, left guard Peter Skoronski, quarterback Will Levis and running back Tyjae Spears, all made an impact, which was a far cry from some recent draft classes.
As a result of their performances, CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso ranked the Titans’ most recent draft class as the 10th-best in the NFL during the 2023 campaign.
Trapasso named Skoronski, Spears and Levis as the Year 1 hits from the group.
Skoronski lived up to the expectations as a reliable interior blocker making the switch from tackle to guard in the NFL. Levis’ flashes were outstanding just few and far between and Spears proved to be the running back of the future as a versatile, elusive weapon out of the backfield.
Skoronski had his growing pains, especially after having to overcome an appendectomy, but he was solid overall and finished the season strong. He’s the only O-line starter from 2023 who is locked into a starting job in 2024.
Because of the importance of his position, Levis has ignited excitement for the future of the franchise after showing he’s capable of making all of the throws.
He’s definitely got work to do to take that next step, but some of his issues can be attributed to the lackluster situation around him with a terrible O-line and a receiving corps. that struggled to get open. We’ll have a much better idea of where he stands once those issues are shored up.
Last but not least, Spears was the most consistent of the trio and has the goods to be an electric playmaker. He also checked the pass protection box, which is important for him in order to see third-down snaps. Spears should lead Tennessee’s backfield in 2024.
Tennessee didn’t get much out of their last three picks, but two of them did play sparingly, making it tough to properly evaluate, so there is hope for them yet.
Offensive tackle Jaelyn Duncan got the most run and struggled but was also thrown into a role he wasn’t ready for. Tight end Josh Whyle showed some flashes as a pass-catcher and blocker but didn’t get much playing time, and Colton Dowell only saw 51 snaps on offense, with the majority of his playing time coming on special teams. He also suffered a season-ending injury.
The Titans are facing a rebuild this offseason but have a great foundation to get going with Skoronski, Levis and Spears in the mix.
