It has been a little while since we’ve taken a look at a starting offense projection for the Tennessee Titans, so what better time than now to update it after the news of DeAndre Hopkins’ expected signing.
The move is huge, as Hopkins gives the Titans the impact receiver they desperately needed after the team neglected what was one of its biggest weaknesses throughout the offseason.
What the addition of Hopkins also does is push everyone down the depth chart and, in turn, puts them in a spot and role they are better suited for.
As much as I like a guy like Kyle Philips, the idea of him being the No. 2 receiver worried me. Thankfully, that is no longer the case.
Here’s a look at an updated starting offense projection for Tennessee in the wake of the Hopkins signing. We’ve included a total of 13 players instead of 11 to account for both three-receiver sets and 12 personnel.
QB: Ryan Tannehill
RB: Derrick Henry
WR1: DeAndre Hopkins
Because of his history as a top receiver, and because he didn’t show signs of a decline in 2022, we have to give Hopkins the respect he’s earned and call him Tennessee’s top wideout.
Now, that’s not to say he won’t take a step back at 31 years old and/or won’t be surpassed by the younger Treylon Burks at some point this season, but we’ll have to see it first.
WR2: Treylon Burks
WR3: Kyle Philips
As stated in the intro, Philips is much better suited as the No. 3 receiver and, really, the No. 4 option in the offense when you include Chig.
Nuk’s ability to play in the slot, a spot he played from more often during his days under Tim Kelly in Houston, could limit the UCLA product’s snaps, but Philips should also benefit from more space over the middle when Hopkins is on the outside.
I like the Hopkins/Burks/Chig trio for TEN.
When Tim Kelly became OC in Houston in 2019, Hopkins played inside at a higher rate. Wouldn't be surprised if we see a lot of him in the slot this year. https://t.co/CsNaF9eO3Z
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) July 16, 2023
TE1: Chigoziem Okonkwo
TE2: Trevon Wesco
Until I see rookie Josh Whyle prove to be a good blocker, Wesco is the choice here. However, having Whyle assume this role would be ideal, as Wesco is zero threat to catch the football.
LT: Andre Dillard
Dillard has long been projected to be the starter at left tackle, even after the team drafted Peter Skoronski. That said, the rookie will still get his crack at the starting job in training camp. Whoever loses will likely play left guard.
LG: Peter Skoronski
C: Aaron Brewer
RG: Daniel Brunskill
RT: Jamarco Jones (if George Fant isn't signed)
The Titans look to be on the verge of signing veteran George Fant, with the team set to bring him in for a workout this weekend.
I fully expect them to get something done with 31-year-old and for him to man right tackle in the absence of Nicholas Petit-Frere, but until the team officially signs him, I’m rolling with Jamarco Jones.
