The Tennessee Titans need to upgrade the tight end position in 2022, and they’ll start looking to do so when free agency begins next week.
With the lack of utilization of the tight end in the passing game in recent years, and with the team not having a lot of funds to spare, chances are Tennessee won’t be breaking the bank to fill the position.
One affordable tight end with some upside who was suggested for Tennessee by Pro Football Focus’ Ben Linsey is Arizona Cardinals tight end Maxx Williams. Here’s what he wrote:
“Injuries to Derrick Henry, A.J. Brown and Julio Jones last season highlighted Tennessee’s need to build a better cast of complementary options on offense. Williams might not be the first name that comes to mind when looking for an offensive difference-maker, but he’s one of the more intriguing tight end options available.
“Williams’ 83.8 PFF run-blocking grade since joining the Cardinals in 2019 ranks first among all tight ends — an important consideration on an offense like Tennessee’s. There’s a possibility that he could add more than anticipated as a receiver, as well. Williams caught 16 of 17 targets in an expanded receiving role prior to his Week 5 injury last season.”
As PFF notes, Williams is a sensational blocking tight end, especially in the run game. He’s also a capable receiver, which could make him the well-rounded, every-down upgrade Tennessee needs.
In 2021, Williams finished with 16 catches for 193 yards and one score in five games. He was well on his way to smashing his previous career-highs, but suffered a torn ACL in Week 5 that ended his season early.
Williams brings the kind of upside for a reasonable price that the Titans should be exploring with their financial situation. Spotrac estimates a Williams contract at three years, $20 million ($6.6 million per).
Signing Williams would give a win-now team like Tennessee the starting-caliber tight end it needs, while also allowing the team to draft and develop a tight end behind him should it select one in the 2022 NFL draft.
