SBNation.com User Blog: Michael A. Lombardo

Titans 2013 Draft Analysis: We're Gonna Be A Physical Team!

Michael A. Lombardo — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:05:25 -0000

The Titans almost had an absolute flawless draft, at least in my opinion. The only way it could have been better is if they added on a more elite pass rusher, but they got great value in the Lavar Edwards pick and another speedster Linebacker in Gooden. Even if the Titans missed out on Moore from A&M or Hunt from SMU, they still had a great draft.

The first pick couldn't have gone any more perfect. Warmack is an absolute beast, who can mow down defenders to make run lanes and protect Locker. There was some drama that made me a tad uneasy before the pick. With the Rams trading up, and the Jets looking to also beef up their line, I was worried that the Titans would miss out on Cooper and Warmack. Once Cooper was taken by the Cardinals, I was really nervous. Who didn't feel like this was going to be like past drafts? You know what I'm talking about, the Titans just missing out on the player they specifically want and who fits their needs. With the teams after the Cardinals starting picking other players like Tavon Austin and Dee Milliner, I started to grow with excitement. Finally the Titans are actually gonna get the guy they wanted, unless they pick someone that no one would think of (i.e. Kendall Wright or even CJ, even though CJ worked out pretty well). Somehow the Titans did not disappoint, they picked arguably the best player in the draft.

If you look deeper at why they picked Warmack, you will see why he was their guy from day one. They want to dictate the pace of the game and not let other teams dictate it for them, much like opponents did this past season. Warmack, is big, mean, strong, smart, and a perfect compliment to Andy Levitre.

Not only was Warmack a perfect pick, but so was 4th round steal Brian Schwenke. Schwenke, according to some draft experts is pro-ready as well. An immediate plug and start (which could make current Center Velasco a tad nervous about his job). Brian was given a second to third round grade by most draft experts, and some say he and Barrett Jones are the two best Centers in this years draft. The Titans stayed patient and got him in the 4th, unlike Dallas who went out on a limp and drafted a player with the same draft value in the 1st round. Schwenke also fits the mold the Titans want, big, strong, mean, and nasty for his position. With those two picks alone the Titans have solidified their interior line for the next 5 years.

The second round pick at first had me questioning their logic to trade up and pick a WR, which wasn't as big a pressing need as edge rusher. It does make perfect sense though, they went and got a first round value player in the 2nd. Justin Hunter on some boards, was arguably the best WR in the draft. The reason's he slid was his past injuries and his hands, but his blazing speed and size make up for those shortcomings. Speed and size are two things you can't teach, improving your hands is something you can teach (injuries are something teams just have to gamble on). Some NFL experts compare Hunter to current Bengals WR A.J. Green, which is quite the comparison. Look if the Titans get the next A.J. Green by only trading a 7th rd pick, and 3rd pick in next years draft, then Ruston Webster should get a medal.

I like the Blidi Wreh-Wilson pick as well, even though I tend to think they wanted the Honey Badge, but he got picked right before the Titans. Wilson is bigger and more physical than the Honey Badger. He clocked in at 4.55 in his 40, which is pretty good, but the only thing I worry about is his inability to turn his hips quickly. He is a press corner, which is perfect against the big physical WR (i.e. Andre Johnson, Justin Blackmon, and Reggie Wayne), but he does have an issue when turning to stay with the WR on the deep ball. He isn't an immediate starter like the first two picks, but he will probably be on the field during nickel situations.

LB Zavar Gooden has that ever so important commodity, speed. Some people say he lacks instincts and lacks tackling ability. Those are two big knocks if you play Linebacker in the NFL, but those are two things that you can be taught. Current Titans LB's Ayers and Brown both had complaints about their tackling ability as well, but as a lot of you saw this past season they sure did fix that problem. Gooden could be another one of those diamond in the rough LB's

DE Lavar Edwards may be the only pick I have a problem with. I'm not saying he isn't good or he doesn't fit what the Titans want in a DE. He has the size they want, but lacks the speed. He's a 6'4, 277 pound DE, and can be physical with OT specifically on running situations, but his lack of speed makes me think he is only a situation DE. The Titans needed more of an edge rusher, than a big physical DE, which is my only complaint. Edwards could turn out to be a 3 down DE with some coaching, we shall see.

CB Khalid Wooten is a perfect value corner that was taken in the sixth round. As of right now he probably will be relegated to special teams duty, because he looks more like a project than a starter. He lacks the polish to get into defensive reps right now, but fits the physical corner mold the Titans wanted.

S Daimion Stafford was a JUCO star (that's junior college player, to the football illiterate), before he transferred to the University of Nebraska. He is another developmental player like Wooten, who lacks overall speed, which could be attributed to his big build. His big build has it's positives though. He apparently makes WR's pay for going over the middle and is great against the run. It seems he has the same pedigree as current Titans S Bernard Pollard, who he can learn from.

Overall I give the Titans an A-. Very close to being a perfect draft, of course this may all change when the season starts and we see how much of an impact these players have. Right now, at least on paper, the Titans drafted one of their better draft classes.

Overall Analysis of the Season Schedule, and 'Way' Too Early Record Prediction.

Michael A. Lombardo — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 05:08:43 -0000

I may be a couple days late on my opinion of the Titans 2013 schedule, but I sure only see it going one of two ways after contemplating it. With Coach Munch and most of his staff's job on the line, along with the future of Locker, the Titans will either be in playoffs, or 5 win season at best. I don't see any 7-9, 8-8, or even 9-7 in this schedule. The main reasoning behind this is the first two games on the road, and the 4 out of 6 games on the road to end the season. The Titans playing both NFC and AFC west, conferences this year could take it's toll on the team, but if they were to win most of the West coast games, you bet their in the playoffs.

One could argue the NFC west has the best teams in football right now. The 49er's came off their great Superbowl run just a tad short, yet they were able to keep the most important parts of their team intact this past off-season, and arguably got better with the addition of Nnamdi Asomugha. The Seattle Seahawks also look very dangerous with the newly added pass-rush in Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett. Don't sleep on St. Louis either, we all know how Jeff Fisher can turn a team around. They haven't made as big a splash in FA (except Jake Long, sorry Cook isn't a big splash), but with two first round picks in the draft, they could really load up on talent.

In the AFC west the Broncos were just one busted coverage play, in making the AFC championship. With most of their team still intact, and the addition of Wes Welker (that's a scary combo with Peyton), it's easy see why they are the early favorites to win the Super Bowl. I know some of you will laugh at the Chiefs being a tough game this year, but they actually went and got a QB that won't turn over the ball all the time. Plus they've got a plethora of talent on both sides of the ball (Charles, Berry, Bowe, Johnson...). Let's not forget about the pesky Chargers either. No matter how good the Titans are, they seem to have the most trouble with Phillip Rivers every year they play.

To open the season they have to go on the road for the first two weeks, which is a first in a long time. First to Heinz field against the ageing, but still always tough Steelers. Then on to Houston to play the an almost playoff type game against the Texans. If they could come out with at least one of those games being a win, then all is not lost. Now I know 0-2 isn't the end of the season for the Titans, but they can't afford to play from behind this early. If miraculously they were to win both before they come home for a 3 game stand, then you bet they could be the favorites to win the division.

The next 3 games at LP field will be tough, but I don't see how the Titans could lose all three. Say the Titans lose against the Chargers then win against the Jets, and Chiefs (all AFC teams BTW), the Titans could only be 6 more wins to being in the Playoffs. If they lose all three, I wouldn't be surprised if Bud debated firing Munch that early.

The next two games, at least on paper right now, look like the two toughest games for the Titans. They've gotta make their first west coast trip to Seattle, which if you ask anyone who's played their as an opponent they'll tell you its the loudest stadium in the NFL. Then come home to take on the Super Bowl runner-up San Francisco 49ers. If the Titans take one of those games I would be very impressed, let alone ecstatic. They could show that they are actually capable of competing with the elite in the NFL.

The bye week couldn't come at a better time after the 49er's game. They come back on the road against the Fisher Rams. You have no idea how badly I want the Titans to beat Fisher and Rams, granted they could be on fire when we play them. I some how don't see that happening. I mean yes the Rams could win it, but they have no passing weapons on offense and no rushing attack. Their defense is pretty stout, but if they can't get anything going on offense then what's the point if they can't get points? Then the lone prime time game at home Thursday night against the Colts.

That will probably be a code-blue game for one, and also I wanna say the Titans play better under the lights. Last year the only prime-time games the Titans were in were both wins. Yes, one was against the Jets, but still it was a win. The other against the Steelers, who had the Titans number since 2008. So if this year turns into a replica of last year somehow, I expect the Titans to play their best football that game.

It's back to the west coast the next week against Oakland, who are almost as pathetic as the Jaguars in my opinion. I'm not saying I don't respect the black and silver, but until ownership and coaching gets better it won't matter who they draft and how fast they are. They'll still be a bad team. So I see a win hopefully.

The next week the Titans will play the Colts twice in a span of 17 days, which I don't like to be honest. Not sure what the people who scheduled this were thinking. Having two division rivals play in the short time span, devalues the rivalry, but it will be an important and potentially division winner game.

Following the division game the Titans take on a familiar foe in Peyton Manning and the Broncos. Sadly it will be in Denver at Invesco, but I will happily not be around the fair weather Titan fans who'll be wearing a UT Manning jersey (my late friend hated that, and I am going to continue the tradition). I support my NFL team regardless of where someone played in college, sorry SEC fans. If the Titans pull this off, then we could be talking about home field advantage in the playoffs. I know that seems crazy to think that, but if the Titans were to lose both to the 49er's and Seahawks, but still have a manageable winning record, it's plausible.

Luckily the two games before the season finale are against two cellar-dwellers. The Cardinals need more than just Palmer too be good, and Jacksonville is well Jacksonville. The season finale at home, could either be pretty damn sweet or will just be happy the season is over with.

The Texans at home finale, could be a setup of the Titans winning the division. Personally I think the Titans and Colts will fight it out for AFC south supremacy this year. The Texans are starting to look old and vulnerable. With that being said, this could be what Goddell wants, which is division opponents fighting it out for the AFC south supremacy and a playoff spot.

With all the optimism in the world for this upcoming season, and like I said earlier I don't see an 8-8 record. I either see playoffs and even a bye, or will be looking for a new HC and looking at Andy Murray, A.J. MacCarron or Johnny Football to be the new QB.

I'm gonna go the optimistic route and say 11-5, mainly because Munch, Locker, and most of the coaching staff are going to be playing for their jobs.

Poll

What do you think the Titans record will be in 2013?

12+ wins and division winnier

6 votes

11-9 wins and wild card

59 votes

7 or 8 wins

21 votes

6 or less

9 votes

95 votes | Poll has closed

NFL Mock Draft: Mocking The Picks 23-32

Michael A. Lombardo — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 05:41:30 -0000

With our third and final addition of the NFL mock draft, I am concluding with the latter part of the draft. All the playoff teams to be exact. How can these guys get even better, or will we see teams trade to get back in the first round?

To view the first parts of my mock, just click on my profile and follow the links, or look in draft section on the MCM front page.

Without further ado, lets get finished with the Mock.

23rd pick. The Minnesota Vikings select : WR Deandre Hopkins, University of Clemson.

I know this one is a head scratch-er to some of you, well probably most of you, but Hopkins makes a lot of sense. With the trade of dynamic Percy Harvin, the Vikings are looking to fill the void somehow. Hopkins doesn't have that versatility that Harvin had, but he's defiantly a more pure receiver, and more durable. Harvin was injured a fair amount during his time in Minnesota and they could benefit from a healthy option at WR. Plus they've gotta get some help around Adrian Peterson, who can carry the load and most of the offense. If he goes down, then what do they have on offense? Not much, plus Ponder could benefit from a pure WR.

other picks: Damontre Moore, Kawann Short, Desmond Tufant, Johnathan Banks.

24th pick. The Indianapolis Colts select: DE Bjoern Warner, Florida State University.

Warner finally gets picked, and is a steal this late. Warner has caught a lot flack for his combine performance, but he still got 13 sacks last year in Tallahassee. He may have to work on being a stand-up pass rusher in a 3-4 scheme that the Colts run, or he could be pushed inside and rush closer to the middle. He's got the size at 6-3, 266 and he almost fits a better 3-4 rusher, than a 4-3 edge rusher. Some say he lacks explosive speed, well if that were true how did he get 13 sacks? I could see the Colts maybe adding a O-lineman here to keep Andrew Luck safe, but they need defense.

other picks: Sam Montgomery, Larry Warford, Barrett Jones, Kawann Short.

25th pick. The Minnesota Vikings (via trade from the Seattle Seahawks for Percy Harvin) select: DT Kawann Short, Purdue.

I know they still have that mountain man in Kevin Williams in the middle along with Jared Allen rushing on the end, but they need some more help at the D-line position. Some would argue they need linebacker help, which they do, but there isn't anyone that really sticks out (Sorry Manti Te'o fans). Look, Short is a large space eater, who can also rush the passer. With the the plethora of good QB's in the NFC north, you need to have a good pass rush. With the addition of Allen you could see the Vikings D-line dominate the trenches.

other picks: Desmond Trufant, Sylvester Williams, Alex Okafor, Kevin Minter.

26th pick. The Green Bay Packers select: RB Le'veon Bell, Michigan State University.

So we got our first RB picked here, and I bet some of you thought it would be Lacy from Alabama. Well after Lacy's poor pro day I expect him to be taken much later. If I don't see GM Ted Thompson trading down here, I'll be surprised. Some argue there isn't any real standout talent at RB to draft in the first round, and to be honest most people are right. Bell on the other hand is a damn good back to have, and he is one the safer one's to pick, especially this early. TE is also a need that should be addressed, but with Eifert taken earlier, RB is almost a given pick. 3-4 DE is also a choice here, but once again RB is a big concern.

other picks: Sam Montgomery, Zach Ertz, Damontre Moore, Datone Jones, Eddie Lacy.

27th pick. The Houston Texans select: WR, Terrence Williams, Baylor University.

Once again another surprise pick. some mocks have Clemson's Hopkins being picked here, but with the Vikings need for a WR I don't see him lasting. For one thing Williams is a local guy and the Texans really need another WR, Andre Johnson can only do so much for them. Plus they are starting to look really old, on both sides of the ball. Maybe not as much on the defensive side as much as the offensive, which makes me lean toward a pick for the offense. LB wouldn't be a bad thing here either because most of us saw how vulnerable they were without Cushing. Still the offensive side is a much more pressing matter, but you could see them trade down.

other picks: Robert Woods, Manti Te'o, Alex Okafor, Ryan Swope.

28th pick. The Denver Broncos select: DE Damontre Moore, University of Texas A&M

A friend of mine almost convinced me that they could take a RB here, but after looking at the current roster I just don't see it. With the loss of Dumervil, the Broncos need another pass rusher. Ayers on one side and Moore on the other is a good combo. Moore did have a poor showing at the combine, but that doesn't mean he won't be taken in the first round. He's too good to pass up this late, especially for a team that was one deep-ball away from the AFC championship. Wouldn't they minded having a pass rusher like Moore, when Flacco chucked that long ball. Safety could be a pickup here with Matt Elam still on the board, but the secondary is already pretty stacked.

other picks: Matt Elam, Cornellius Carradine, Datone Jones, Giovani Bernard, Eddie Lacy.

29th pick. The New England Patriots select: WR Robert Woods, University of Southern California.

With the loss of Wes Welker, and the overall lack of play-makers around Tom Brady, the Pats will more likely go best available WR here. Woods is a good pickup, a local Tennessean also. He didn't have the big numbers this past year like he did in 2011, but still 11 TD's isn't too shabby. the other thing the Pats could do here is go O-line, because they seem to lack the protection they need. They could even go RB here, with Giovani Bernard here. Woods is a solid pickup, and if you have Brady throwing to you, I'm pretty sure he'll be okay.

other picks: Larry Warford, Barrett Jones, Eddie Lacy, Markus Wheaton.

30th pick. The Atlanta Falcons select: DB Desmond Trufant, Washington University.

The Falcons are right there, and I mean right there on being in the Super Bowl. They need some more defense to get the job done. With the aerial attacks of Bree's, Newton, and Freeman to Jackson, they are gonna need a shut-down CB. They lost Brent Grimes in free agency, but he was starting to lack durability. Trufant is somewhat a raw talent, but if coached right he could be the best CB in the draft, better than Milliner or Woods. A Safety was also on the list of potential needs here, but with William Moore being franchised they can get the best available corner at 30. Trufant is another one of those slam dunk picks in my opinion.

other picks: Johnathan Banks, Matt Elam, Kevin Minter

31st pick. The San Francisco 49ers select: DT Johnathan Hankins, The Ohio State University.

I almost went Safety here, with Goldson leaving town for Tampa, that wouldn't be a bad idea here. The 49ers could pick up a Safety like Johnathan Cypien in round 2, or even Baccari Rambo in round 3 (that is just an awesome name!). DT or more importantly NT is a bigger need here, and Hankins is a big guy (330, 6-4). He's a space eater and can free up Patrick Willis to do what he does best, and that is get to the football. I debated between Hankins and Sylvester Williams or even Jesse Williams. In the end Hankins has a better record at being a dominate force in the middle.

other picks: Sylvester Williams, Jesse Williams, Matt Elam.

32nd picks. The defending Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens select: S Matt Elam, The University of Florida.

With the departure of Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard, Elam is a biggest need pick. CB is also a need here as well, but not as bad as S. Elam is arguably better than Vaccaro, because of the SEC competition Elam played week in and week out. So Elam could be a huge steal at 32nd. I was going to put Alex Okafor here originally, until I saw Rolando McClain was picked up today by the Ravens. So they filled a much needed position with McClain, they are able to get another need filled in the draft immediately with the addition of Elam.

other picks: Sam Montgomery, Alex Okafor, Johnathan Banks, Eric Reid.

With that pick ladies and gentleman, you have my in depth analysis Mock Draft 2013, the Super Bowl of the off-season. Please comment and tell me what you would have done differently or what I got wrong in the comments section.

Till next time, stay classy.

On a lighter note, congrats to TheDUCKin'Noles10 and his newest opportunity with DraftFalcon.com, good luck man.

NFL Mock Draft 2013: Mocking Picks 11-22

Michael A. Lombardo — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:55:21 -0000

Last time I was here, I had just finished up the first 10 picks of the draft. Now as I continue my mock, I'll start with pick 11 in San Diego.

To view my first 10 picks just go to my bio page and click on the first 10 picks.

Without further ado lets get started.

11th pick. The San Diego Chargers select-WR Tavon Austin, University of West Virginia.

I am predicting this pick based on need, and not best available. I know some of you are saying, "Well if it's need don't the chargers need O-line?" They do, that's why Johnathan Cooper could be picked here. The lose of offensive line could be a tipping point in selecting Cooper or another O-lineman, but not this early. Defense was another possibility, but the Chargers actually have a decent defense. The Chargers thought the loss of Vincent Jackson wouldn't be that bad, but in actuality they lost a lot of that offensive spark they had always had. So Austin would probably be the smartest pick here.

other pick: Johnathan Cooper, Bjoern Warner, Justin Hunter, Cordarrelle Patterson.

12th pick. The Miami Dolphins select-DT Sharrif Floyd, University of Florida.

Now there had been recent news out of Dolphins camp that they are looking at trading up to get Oklahoma Sooner LT Lane Johnson, so this my be an invalid pick. Still, if they are still at 12th and a quality Tackle isn't there, then they would be stupid to pass up on Floyd. They got Mike Wallace in FA to give Tannehill a weapon on offense, but maybe they add on another WR, or CB (even with the signing of Brent Grimes). Floyd is the best player available and he's an absolute steal here at 12. Some people have him number 2, on a lot of big boards. Put him next to all-pro's Randy Starks and Cameron Wake, and they got quite the D-line.

other picks: Xavier Rhodes, Keenan Allen, D.J. Flucker

13th pick: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers select-Trade Pick To The New York Jets for DB Darrell Revis. The new 13th pick: The New York Jets select-WR Keenan Allen, California University.

The news coming out of Tampa is they are gonna trade their first pick to NYJ for Revis, but the Jets want more. As of right now Tampa is saying no, but I think this is inevitable to be honest. It's just part of the process of getting the best deal. If I was Tampa I would make the trade, and then they arguably have the best secondary in football with Revis and recent FA additions. So with the trade I see the Jets going WR with the addition of Keenan Allen. Like I said earlier, the Jets need lots of help and Allen shores up the WR, especially with the lack of play-makers on the offensive side of the ball. Some people think they should take Hunter or Patterson, or even a QB (They will, just not this early). I think Allen is the best pick here.

other picks: Justin Hunter, Cordarrelle Patterson, Matt Barkley, Ryan Nassib, Xavier Rhodes.

14th pick: The Carolina Panthers select-DT Sheldon Richardson, Missiouri

The Panthers regressed a bit in there 2012 season, some argue it was the poor play of Cam Newton. Which is somewhat true, but it was much bigger than that, because he really started to turn it on during the last couple of games in the season. The lack of more talent at the WR position made me think they could go Patterson or Hunter here as well, but they need a D-tackle. They got Charles Johnson on the outside edge, but no one in the interior D-line getting a push. With defensive minded coach Ron Rivera on the hot seat makes me think he bets on what he knows best, and that's defense. Richardson could potentially be a game changer if coached right. Some argue he's the number one DT in this years draft.

other picks: Xavier Rhodes, Justin Hunter, Cordarrelle Patterson, Bjoern Warner.

15th pick: The New Orleans Saints select-CB Xavier Rhodes, Florida State University.

The Saints had a rather unexpected mediocre 2012, but a lot of that was attributed to the "bounty-gate" suspensions of Sean Peyton and Gregg Williams. They are still a very good team, especially with Brees at QB. I wouldn't be surprised if they went D-line or outside linebacker either, but Rhodes is too good to pass up right here. With new D-coordinator Rob Ryan being able to actually make roster suggestion without Jerry Jones constantly questioning his decision making, could sway the organization to go defensive. Which they are in dire need of, especially in the secondary. Rhodes is the perfect fit.

other picks: Desmond Trufant, Bjoern Warner, Barkevious Mingo, Alec Ogletree

16th pick: The St. Louis Rams select-OG Johnathan Cooper, University of North Carolina.

Jeff Fisher has made it evident they want Warmack, in fact there were rumors of him trading up to get him. I don't see any of the first 10 teams letting someone jump ahead without paying a big price to move up (the Jets are possibility though). Cooper is just as serviceable as Warmack and in fact could be better. We could potentially see the first RB picked here, but i highly doubt it. We could even see our first S picked here also, because the Rams are in need of a S. Plus they are looking to add more play makers around Sam Bradford, WR is a possibility. They gotta go Cooper here, they can pick up a RB, WR, or S with their second 1st round pick or in the 2nd.

other picks: Kenny Vaccaro, Eddie Lacey, Justin Hunter, Cordarrelle Patterson

17th pick: The Pittsburgh Steelers select-WR Justin Hunter, University of Tennessee.

The Steelers are starting to look kind of old lately, especially their defense. So some fresh blood of edge rushers or secondary players could be good. You just can't lose your best deep weapon and expect to still be good, I like Sanders and Brown, but neither could stretch the field like Wallace. Justin Hunter is a burner who had played in a pro-style offense and can chase the deep ball. I choose Hunter over Patterson because he's got a better burst, better hands, and more big game experience. Plus he's a big WR, which a lot of teams are looking for.

other picks: Bjoern Warner, Damontre Moore, Kenny Vaccaro, Alec Ogletree

18th pick: The Dallas Cowboys select-S Kenny Vaccaro, University of Texas.

To be honest the Cowboys are a very good team, with a lot of talent. For some reason their secondary is horrendous. A lot of that can be blamed on the S play, which is why Vaccaro is perfect. At the same time, their D-line is great, but it could benefit from someone like Alec Ogletree or Mingo. So the Vaccaro pick to me is a bigger gamble then getting a good 3-4 LB, but could pay huge dividends. This pick I am not as sure as other's I've made so far. So I could be way off on this one, but I think it would be really good for Vaccaro to end up here.

other picks: Alec Ogletree, Barkevious Mingo, Demontre Moore.

19th pick: The New York Giants select-TE Tyler Eifert, Notre Dame .

Okay this one may be a bit of a head scratch-er to some, but hear me out. Maybe the Giants could go D-tackle here or even linebacker, but they aren't in dire need of any of those guys. Offensive line is even a possibility, but with Eifert just sitting there as the number one rated TE, you can't pass him up. Especially since your starting TE just left town. They have got the edge rushers and already a pretty good secondary. Yes Mingo and Ogletree could be picked here, especially Mingo, because the lack of athletic ability for the Sam or Will linebackers (that's strong and weak side linebackers for the football deficient). I just think the Giants stick it out with Rivers and Kiwanuka. Eifert gives Eli Manning a safety blanket with his catching ability, which they have lacked since Shockey or Kevin Boss.

other picks: Barkevious Mingo, Alec Ogletree, or best available OL

20th pick: The Chicago Bears select-ILB Alec Ogletree, University of Georgia.

Finally, Ogletree is picked! With the release of Brian Urlacher, the Bears are looking to make a new force in the middle of the defense, and it couldn't be any more convenient that Ogletree is there. The guy is a leader on an SEC squad that was able to stop the mighty Crimson Tide a couple times in the SEC Championship. He is also rated the number one Mike Linebacker (that's middle for the football illiterate) in the draft. DE could also be the right choice here, especially with the talent left on the board, but sometimes you need a field general in the middle to control your defense. Urlacher was that mighty Bear for the last decade, and it's time to put a new one in there.

other picks: Bjoern Warner, Mingo (yet again), Demontre Moore.

21st pick: The Cincinnati Bengals select-OLB Barkevious Mingo, Louisiana State University.

Finally, Mingo gets picked as well! I'm a big fan of Mingo's mainly because he reminds me of Jevon Kearse coming out of college (Kearse is still better, in my Titan opinion). Some questions about his work ethic have come up, but personally what college player hasn't had that said about them before. I know it's a character flaw, but if you know you're going to be drafted and play in the next level, wouldn't you worry about your safety a little bit (look at Clowney in South Carolina). You could see the first RB taken here. Other than the Law-Firm in Green-Ellis, they don't have much talent there. They will more than likely take one in the 3rd or 2nd. They already have a young crop of linebackers in Burfict and Maualuga, so why not add a hybrid like Mingo.

other picks: Eddie Lacy, Monte Ball, Kawann Short

22nd pick: The St. Louis Rams (via trade Washington Redskins) select-WR Cordarrelle Patterson, University of Tennessee.

As I stated earlier the Rams need to put play-makers around Sam Bradford. No offense to Brian Quick, he's not a number one wide reciever. Patterson can spread the field, he is extremely versatile, and some argue he is better than Hunter. I disagree because he only played one season of division I (or FBS) football. In that one season though he scored 12 touchdowns for UT, which made him one of the only bright spots for the Vols this past year. Once again I'll state you could see a S or RB picked here, or even potentially a CB, but the Rams defense is pretty talented and they can wait till round two to pick a S or RB. Patterson could actually make them a threat on the offensive side of the ball and on special teams.

other picks: Eddie Lacy, Monte Ball, Matt Elam, Johnathan Banks.

Okay with parts one and two complete, all I got left is the playoff teams with picks 23-32. Part 3 will be complete in the next day or two, until then, you guys stay classy.

NFL Mock Draft 2013: Mocking the first ten picks

Michael A. Lombardo — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 05:17:38 -0000

instead of just trying to cram all 32 picks of the first round, I am going to spread out my mock in three separate posts. So without further ado lets get started!!!

1st pick. Kansas City Chiefs select-OT Luke Joeckel, Texas A&M.

Now I know I may be just picking what everyone think's will be the first pick in the draft, but lets be honest. Unless the Chiefs can get someone to trade up and pay a king's ransom, they are going to pick the best available. He's big, can move his hips (which is key especially being a blind-side Tackle), fast hands, and can create separation. Draft experts are comparing him to current all-pro and best tackle in the NFL, Joe Thomas of Cleveland. The Chiefs did bring in West Virginia QB Geno Smith, but I get the feeling that was more posturing to get other teams to trade.

other possible picks: Dion Jordan, Eric Fisher, Geno Smith.

2nd pick. The Jacksonville Jaguars select-OT Eric Fisher, Central Michigan.

The Jag's need a lot of help and I seriously debated them picking Geno Smith here, but I think they give current QB Blaine Gabbert one more year to prove himself. They need help on defense and newly hired HC Gus Bradley is a defensive guy, if he says they need to get either Sharrif Flyod or Star Lotulelei then I think they will. I am gonna bet on the smart money though and they take Fisher. It's a real smart move especially if Gabbert doesn't pan out, because they look more like they are next years number 1 pick, and they could have Johnny Football land in their lap.

other possible picks: Sharrif Floyd, Star Lotulelei, Geno Smith.

3rd pick: The Oakland Raiders select-QB Geno Smith, West Virginia University.

Now some people think they could pick a QB in the 2nd, since they are in desperate need of defensive help and just traded for Matt Flynn, but it's the Raiders. I'm not saying Smith isn't a good pick, but not this early and they really need defensive help. Once again it's the Raiders were talking about. I mean i wouldn't be surprised if they took Tavon Austin here because he's so fast. Smith is a good QB and Oakland has solid offensive scheme around him. With McFadden still in the backfield, a couple of burners at the WR position, and a decent O-line to protect him, seems to be a good fit. Still they have more pressing needs, but they go QB here because it's the Raiders...

other picks: Star Lotulelei, Dion Jordan, Sheldon Richardson, Tavon Austin.

4th pick: The Philadelphia Eagles select-DE Dion Jordan, University of Oregon.

With the new HC Chip Kelly arriving with his offensive philosophies and current offensive players in place, I believe he goes defensive here. Which is smart, but the Jordan pick is for all the wrong reasons. I like Jordan a lot and in fact he is arguably the best defensive player in the draft, but Kelly wants his guy, and Jordan is it. There is a strong possibility they could take Jarvis Jones from Georgia, Dee Miliner from Alabama, or even Chance Warmack. I just think they should put more protection around the offensive side of the ball, especially with Michael Vick being beaten to a pulp this past year (and the year before). It's going to be a good fit, but in the long run it could end with the wrong result, considering how much they need to protect the QB.

other picks: Jarvis Jones, Dee Miliner, Chance Warmack.

5th pick: The Detroit Lions select-CB DeMarcus Milliner, University of Alabama.

Talk about a perfect fit, Milliner would immediately start on day one and could be a Patrick Peterson type corner (and he's bigger than Peterson). A good CB could help a D-line shine, and Detroit still has a good D-line for the most part (Suh and Fairley). They could go D-line here as well, losing Avril and KVB being released isn't the best thing to happen to you line, but a good CB can help an understaffed D-line. The only other choice here could be another WR, which is hysterical considering all the WR's picked during the Millen reign of terror. Milliner in my opinion is a slam dunk pick.

other picks: Tavon Austin, Cordell Patterson, Ezekiel Ansah, Bjoern Warner.

6th pick: The Cleveland Browns select-DE Ezekiel Ansah, Brigham Young University.

I seriously debated putting Tavon Austin here, because they haven't had a number one WR their since the Browns came back to Cleveland. Josh Gordon could be that guy for them, but he didn't make a big impact last year (considering he had to sit out his last year of college eligibility). I also debated Jarvis Jones here and even Bjoern Warner, but Ansah makes a lot of sense. They got Krugman in FA and they drafted man-beast Phil Taylor two drafts ago, throw Ansah in there and you got yourself quite the defensive line. If Dee Milliner wasn't picked right before, Milliner would've been a Brown. Cleveland faithful don't be upset though, Ansah is a beast.

other picks: Bjoern Warner, Xavier Rhodes, Jarvis Jones.

7th pick: The Arizona Cardinals select-OT Lane Johnson, University of Oklahoma.

I almost put Chance Warmack here, and I know a lot of the fellow Titan faithful on here would hate me for it, but I didn't. They still have Levi Brown, but they been having massive protection problems on the offensive line. With Fisher and Joeckel both being gone, Johnson is a good pick here. Jarvis Jones or Star Lotulelei could both be a good fit in the desert, but with new coach Bruce Arians makes me wanna assume they beef up the O-line. With veteran Carson Palmer playing in Arizona, Arians is going to wanna protect him until they get another QB.

other picks: Chance Warmack, Jarvis Jones, Star Lotulelei.

8th pick: The Buffalo Bills select-OLB Jarvis Jones, University of Georgia.

There has been a lot of news about ex-Syracuse QB Ryan Nassib joining his college coach Doug Marrone, but I don't think he will be taken this early. In fact he might still be there in the 2nd round for Buffalo. Chance Warmack will get a long look here with the departure of Andy Levitre. Star Loulelei also will be looked at considering he is easily the best player available right here, but they are not in need of D-line. Jones could be a questionable pickup here, especially with people calling out his work ethic, but he is the best 4-3 linebacker available. Mingo from LSU could also be another player the Bills choose here, but I'm gonna go with Jones. Bills fans don't worry you will get a QB in the second, and it might be Nassib, just you don't want to reach this early.

other picks: Chance Warmack, Star Lotulelei, Barkevious Mingo, Ryan Nassib

9th pick: The New York Jets select-DT Star Lotulelei, Utah

I'm gonna say it, the Jets need EVERYTHING!!! So lets start with a slam dunk of a pick, in Star Lotulelei. Yes he didn't participate in the combine due to a heart condition, but reports recently came out saying that everything is okay. Now some people would argue that's a red flag regardless of the good news, but if everything checked out, the Jets could be extremely fortunate to have a difference maker like Star. The Jets need more than just Star though; they need a wide receiver, tight end, linebacker, safety and most importantly a QB (Mark Sanchez is quite awful, and don't even get me started on Tebow). If they start with Lotulelei, they are getting on the right track.

other picks: Sharrif Flyod, Tavon Austin, Kenny Vaccaro, Barkevious Mingo,

10th pick: The Tennessee Titans select-OG Chance Warmack, University of Alabama.

Now finally with the pick we've all been waiting on, which is a no brainer, Mr. Warmack. Why Warmack over Cooper? Well he's played premier competition and he's what you want in a guard; big, mean, strong, mauler and smart. Now if he isn't available I do expect they would pick Cooper here, but they could seriously debate taking D-line, Kenny Vaccaro, or Xavier Rhodes. Funny thing is, the only player I don't want is Kenny Vaccaro. I wouldn't mind the Rhodes pick or any of the D-lineman left (I really like Mingo). With all the FA moves made, and the O-lineman added, Chance is still the best option here. The O-line, specifically the interior, would be set for the next five years.

other picks: Xavier Rhodes, Johnathan Cooper, Kenny Vaccaro, Barkevious Mingo.

i'll be done with picks 11-22 in the next day or two, and the 23-32 this weekend. Until then feel free to add in your own comments and what you would do differently.

Till next time stay classy...

The NFL's New "Crown of the Helmet" Rule. Is It Needed or Will it Fuel the Concussion Debate?

Michael A. Lombardo — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 03:36:49 -0000

Now another thing that happened during my break from writing was the two rule changes. One being the infamous 'tuck-rule', which helped spawn a New England dynasty and send the Oakland Raiders spiraling into the constant cellar dweller they have become. That is a pretty big rule that is being nixed, but its the other rule that is going to be enforced this coming season that caused me to question the leagues decision making.

Newly acquired Titans safety Bernard Pollard made a comment most recently, that the NFL will cease to exist in 30 years. Now I know some of you don't see the logic in that comment, because you don't see that happening with the current financial state of the NFL, and the popularity of the sport growing globally, but the statement does hold water. Mainly because the NFL could soon turn into a legal mess. Mainly due to ex-players suing the league for concussion like diseases they have suffered through out the years.

Jim McMahon of the '85 Super Bowl Bears, recently said that he wished he never played football, because of the physical toll it took on his body and the medical bills kept piling up. Ex-Pittsburgh Steeler center great Mike Webster, winner of 4 super-bowls died a couple years ago, poor, homeless and massive suffering from brain injuries due to the physical toll of the game. Other greats from Art Monk to Mark Rypien have sued the NFL for concussion type injuries from Lou Gehrig's disease to having to be in dimly lit rooms. Junior Seau committed suicide and some medical experts contribute concussions to his depression leading to his ultimate fate. 2,000 ex-players sued the NFL at once for medical compensation for ignoring the players health. President Obama himself said he would have to question "that if he had son would he want him to play football?" ultimately he said he wouldn't let him. Ex-players are experiencing dementia and Alzheimer like symptoms at an alarming rate.

Now I tell you this so people can see what Roger Goddell's logic was on the decision to implement this new rule. RB's old and new already hate the rule, analyst Mike Mayock of the NFL network was one of the sharpest critics. Ex-Oiler great Earl Campell hates the rule, but in the end it comes down to player safety. Goddell is having to play a tricky game between player safety and the future of the league. Now I'm not saying Goddell is going without criticism, in fact he should have done more to establish an NFL alumni fund for ex-players with concussion problems, its not like they can't afford it (the NFL raked in oh give or take 50 billion dollars last year alone).

But why do I bring up this rule? Well simple when will it stop, or will the league become a former shell of itself, even a comical version of itself. There is plenty of bias directed towards particular players safety more than others, for example Tom Brady or Peyton Manning, if they get even a remote strike near the helmet or legs, its a penalty and then a 10k at least fine to that player later in the week. But I remember vividly watching Vince Young being slammed on his neck by a trio of Steelers players and no penalty and a fine came weeks later. So the rules are almost there to protect the NFL's best interest at the current time, now I'm not saying that Brady or Manning are un-touchable but it's pretty close.

The NFL is almost turning more into a medical liability than a game, which it ultimately is. The problem is all the ex-players suing the NFL for millions of dollars and more rules restricting the games "purity" (I guess that's what you could say). So before the NFL ceases operation due to lawsuits, should they take drastic steps in insuring that won't happen, as a fan and hopeful future employee I believe they have to.

I really think future NFL players will have to sign waivers that ensure they won't sue the league due to concussion's, once their career is over. Think of it as a non-disclosure agreement that company would make an employee sign. It's not that they don't care about the employee, just they are trying to run a business. Same goes for the NFL, it's not that they don't ultimately care for the players future well-being, but they have to run a business. I'm also not saying that they should ignore player safety. That's why they should help pour money into the NFL Alumni Association to help with future medical cost and really have a educational approach for the player's and coach's on concussions and when to recognize them and not push players to the brink.

The waiver basically would tell all players that "you are playing this game at your own risk, and whatever long-term effects you should have post football career you are acknowledging them, and still want to play regardless".

That's just my own personal opinion, but please I wanna hear all you guys input on this, and continue this discussion, because it could very well soon be a big problem.

Poll

Should the NFL implement a player safety waiver system?

Yes

46 votes

No

8 votes

Keep Same System in Place

3 votes

Other (Write in Comments Below).

0 votes

57 votes | Poll has closed

Tennessee Titans Free Agency Signings Review and Overall Grade.

Michael A. Lombardo — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 02:18:05 -0000

So after a much needed break from school, work, and other things, I am BACK!!!! Back to my article writing and analysis of the Titans, and giving my opinion on what hopefully will be a much better season then the previous. With that out of the way lets get back to it!

I picked a crazy time to take a break, but after sitting back and looking at what the Titans have done in free agency, since their initial signing of George Wilson, you can really appreciate their effort and smart pickups. To be honest I was very impressed to see how aggressive they have been since the 14th of this month. At the the same time I do have some questions on why they signed a certain player/players to the type of contracts that were offered? Still most of the contracts have been pretty good.

I'll start with the initial signing of S George Wilson. I do like the pickup, he's a good veteran with good field presence, and also knows how to play the middle of the field on coverage. Some of that can attributed to playing next to Jarius Byrd last season, who is arguably one of the better FS in football, a big reason why he was franchised. Still, he was one of the top tackling leaders for the Bills. Which says two things, first the negative being he either let a lot of passes become open, or he was physical and good at stopping teams on run defense.

So I'll go with a C+ on that pickup, it would've been a higher grade if they didn't sign a better S in Bernard Pollard, which I will get too.

Now lets get to the best pickup in my opinion with G Andy Levitre. Some argue he is being overpaid and didn't deserve that much money. Well I think he is worth the amount of money he is getting in the long-run, granted 7.8 million or so a year is a lot to tie up in a guard. To be honest if you want that protection for Locker, or those running lanes for CJ, you're gonna have to make sure the lineman you have are capable of that. Which Levitre looks more than able to do that, and will be here for the long-haul.

I give the Levitre signing an A.

Now to fill the void of Jared Cook, the Titans signed TE Delanie Walker. Now I know he isn't the vertical threat Cook was, but he fits more into what the Titans are trying to do, which is be more physical. I know some knock his hands, but still he is almost as good of catcher as Cook was. Of course in the blocking department he easily surpasses Cook. He's a much bigger and physical TE, and with Craig Stevens in the lineup, the Titans could be trying more jumbo packages to combat the big physical Texans or Jaguars "D".

Walker gets C+ in my opinion, a tad average, but a more wait and see than anything approach.

Okay the most questionable pickup was Shonn Greene, and not so much what role he will be in, but why so much money? Now I know a lot of people didn't like CJ's comments made about the signing either, but to be honest I see the reasoning behind his gripe, just he picked a bad time to express his discontent. Talent wise they couldn't have picked a better 3rd down back. When its 3rd and short and you need the yardage Greene got it 11 of 11 times, plus he's durable. Sorry, Ringer wasn't getting it done, which is part of CJ's thought process, why go get Greene when they had Ringer or draft someone. So I like that he's a great backup and is a better insurance policy than Ringer, but 10 million for 3 years, that's a bit much for a backup RB. He could be a real cap problem, next year if they Titans look to purge some players.

I give that a C.

I'm gonna put the Sammie Lee Hill and Ropati Pitoitua signing together as one. The signing of both achieved what Jerry Gray, Gregg Williams, Tracy Rocker and Keith Millard wanted, which is beef up their defensive line. First with that mountain of a man in Sammie Hill 6'4 and (a generous) 330-lbs of a man. Talk about beef in the middle, him an Casey will be space eaters at the DT positions, when in at the same time, and he's a good pass-rusher also. Today's signing of 6'7 and 315 pound Samoan behemoth Ropati Pitoitua filled another quota for a big physical D-line. Word is a lot of the Kansas City Chief faithful are pissed Ropati is gone. They felt he was massively undervalued by the Chief organization and we will reap the benefits. He's the perfect role playing DE to put in.

I give the Hill signing a B+ and Pitoitua a C+.

Now the former St. Louis Ram G Rob Turner, was perfect for three things. First, depth. With Hutchinson retiring and the ever lingering Amano enigma, Tuner is a perfect fit. Second, insurance if the Titans don't take Cooper or Warmack or Warford in the 2nd round of the upcoming draft, Turner could start, and to be honest I'd rather have him start then Amano. Finally, a mentor of sorts, if the Titans take one of the above mentioned G's in the draft, Turner would be the perfect person to have mentor someone. He's a veteran, who's seen plenty of players come and go.

I give the Turner signing a B.

Now the Fitzpatrick signing is a sore subject to some Titan faithful, with Hasselback being released, but their is a much bigger silver lining with Fitz then Hass. For one when Hasselback had to be the starter this past year, he didn't really set the world on fire with his play, and he was a very expensive insurance blanket. Granted the Titans offensive play-makers around him weren't much better, still he was rather awful at times. Plus he didn't want less money and he wasn't getting any younger, plus he was starting to look very Kerry Collins like at times. With Fitzpatrick you at least have more youth and a cheaper price tag, and he has shown flashes of being a great QB, but not as a starter, which he is starting to realize. He's got a deep ball (yes sometimes inaccurate), very smart, and very durable.

I give the Fitz signing a C+

Finally the potential biggest signing other than Levitre, the Patriot Killer himself S Bernard Pollard. Now here's a guy who will play immediately and to me bring a much needed nasty streak to the defense. Now he may get some fines and maybe a penalty or two, but this guy is an assassin in the middle, which we haven't had since the Blaine Bishop days to be honest. Now the only thing I don't like is the 1 year deal only, which if the Titans knew he was going to be available before the Wilson signing, he would've gotten a longer contract. His only knock is his coverage ability, which he makes up for in being physical. He's a winner, and can really lay out some hits, which is what the Titans have been desperately needing in the secondary.

I give the Pollard signing an A.

Overall this class gets a B+, not an A because they haven't gotten a elite pass-rusher, but who knows they could still get one. But with 10 players signed and most of their cap money spent, I don't foresee any more signings.

2013 NFL Free Agency: Titans need help at defensive end and defensive tackle

Michael A. Lombardo — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 02:33:03 -0000

One of the most important positions the Titans are looking to upgrade is the defensive line position. Before I look at what's out there in FA, lets look at what we've got. *I know a lot of DE talent is in this years draft, but that's a whole other post I'm gonna do closer to the draft.*

Starting DE's Derrick Morgan and Wimbely are both pretty solid starters, Morgan who was hampered with the ACL tear his rookie year, really started to come into his own last year, but this coming year is a make it or break it year for him. Wimbely right off the bat looked like a solid free agency pickup and turned out to be better than Mario Williams was for the Bills (who was the prized defensive free agent last year). Behind that well its a bit of a crap shoot. The only person still signed on the team is DE Scott Solomon who saw some action last year, but didn't really stand out anywhere. Dave Ball is an unrestricted FA, who's concussion problems are probably gonna make him walk away from the game. The Titans are actually more set depth wise and one could say talent wise at the DT position. Jurrell Casey could turn out to be one of the premier run stoppers in the league if he keeps up the pace. Mike Martin and Karl Klug both have shined at time's, especially Klug and his ability to get to the QB whenever he is on the field. Dajon Harris and Zach Clayton are still on the team, but to be honest, both don't really stick out. Other than the Jared Cook franchise situation, and hopeful Bironas off season signing, Sen'Derrick Marks is a really important player that needs to be re-signed. He had a rather good year this past year, and brought some much needed leadership to a young DT group. So Marks is defiantly an important player to keep on this team. Even if he is signed back, the Titans are looking to upgrade that position as well...and who and where can they get this help?

First place the Titans will be looking is free agency. Now, I know a lot of your hearts dropped when DE Michael Johnson of the Bengals got Franchised, but there is hope in the market for another edge rusher.

I'll start with Tampa Bay Buc Michael Bennett. He's 27, un-restricted and is looking for a place to make an impact. Now it would be tough to see who would be the starter if Bennett came in, but regardless of who's starting the rotation of Morgan, Wimbley, and Bennett would be fantastic.

Rumors are swirling around the fate of New York Giants DE Osi Umenyiora, will be on the market with the Giants not picking up the team option to keep him. That would be the perfect fit for the Titans, a super-bowl winning edge rusher. Yes one of his requirements would be to start, which I believe Derrick Morgan or Wimbely are team players and would oblige. Even if he isn't the starter he would certainly see a fair amount of snaps in every game.

Cliff Avril, the enigma that he is, could potentially be in two-toned blue, but all signs are pointing to Franchise tag if a long term deal isn't put in place by the 12th of March. He could be an impact player right off the bat, but he looks a tad unreasonable to get and he will be a large contract to deal with.

The thought of bringing back two ex-Titans wouldn't be a bad idea. At DT Jason Jones, didn't really make a big impact in Seattle and has been released. He didn't even start one game, so he's got to looking to redeem himself anywhere. Why not come back to familiar surroundings. KVB was released by the Lions, and yes he may be a long shot, but it would be logical to finish up your career where you got a second chance and didn't disappoint. If they are looking for leadership and a great value player, then look no further than Vanden Bosch and Jones.

Speaking of value picks, look no further then Dwight Freeney. He wreaked havoc against the Titans during the glory days of the Colts/Titans rivalry. His performance has dropped off, but he was forced to play in a 3-4 system last year and he's not a 3-4 end or linebacker. Put him somewhere he can thrive with his spin move in a 4-3 defense. Some roll your eyes, but he could be perfect to help with a D-line rotation.

Now the big money DT would be Henry Melton from Chicago, he 13 sacks over 29 starts which is great for a DT. He will be looking to get paid, but if the Titans want to get back that space eating, pressure a DT can bring than look no further than Melton. There have been rumblings of the Franchise tag in the Windy City, but until that happens the Titans should make it a priority to sign him.

So if the Titans are looking for leadership and immediate impact from a player in free agency, then there is plenty of proven talent out there. Are they willing to actually go after the best?

Poll

Out of the potential DE/DT Free Agents listed, who would you want signed?

Tampa Bay Buc- Michael Bennett

48 votes

New York Giant- Osi Umenyiora

66 votes

Chicago Bear- Henry Melton

42 votes

Detroit Lion - Cliff Avril

23 votes

Free Agent- Kyle Vanden Bosch

14 votes

Free Agent- Jason Jones

7 votes

Re-sign Sen'Derrick Marks

14 votes

Other...(please write in comment section)

11 votes

225 votes | Poll has closed

Titans Need To Get Chris Johnson a Quality Backup

Michael A. Lombardo — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 07:07:51 -0000

So with most of us watching the combine, or at least tuning into what coach Munch and GM Webster have to say; it's say to say we're in full offseason mode. I know most of us are looking at O-line help or all around defensive help in FA or the draft, but I think we need to look at something that is a glaring problem for the Titans. That being the lack of depth behind Chris Johnson.

I know some people have the idea that if he's being payed 10 million a year then he should be earning that money, by always being on the field. That's a valid point, same goes for the Offensive line criticism. You can't have a good RB if you have a piss-poor O-line, which sadly we have. So of course the Titans should upgrade the O-line and they have made it clear they are going to through FA and the draft. With all that being said, CJ should have some sort of RB situation to spell him and not make him carry the whole load.

I like Javon Ringer. I was a pretty big fan of his at Michigan State, and was a Heisman hopeful before injuries started piling up in college and this past season's injuries. Jamie Harper is a load and he's almost like LenDale White without the off field baggage, but he's also having durability issues and not living up to potential. Darius Reynard is a weapon on special teams and could be a weapon on offenses if used correctly, but until then he's a special teams guy. With all that being said the Titans should look at upgrading the back-up RB position, because none of those guys are a proper safety blanket if CJ goes down with an injury or his performance really drops off.

Now the RB position has changed with the league becoming a more vertical league. No longer are the days of Eddie George where 30 carries a game were the norm around the league. The 3rd down/backup RB are just as important as the starter themselves. Look at San Fran and Baltimore, both have great starter in Gore and Rice, but there backups are just as suitable and important. LaMichael James was very pivotal, coming in for the aging starter for San Fran. Rice also had to spelled out at times by Bernard Pierce, who in all honesty could be a starter also. Now some of you will say, "hey those guys have the best offensive lines in football also", which is very true, but having a serviceable backup RB is crucial.

Look at the FA market, where some great value backs are. Felix Jones is looking to get a job somewhere, he has some durability issues, but is almost like a poor man's CJ. He was beaten, bruised, and misused in Dallas, but he could be a cheap pickup. Shonn Greene could be available and will probably be available. A lot of people don't view him as a starter, but he could be a great backup. When he was splitting carries with an aging LaDanian Tomlinson people were screaming for him to be the starter, but carrying the full load broke him down. He could be a perfect fit as a backup. Now I think Ahmad Bradshaw will get a starting job somewhere else (Jets, Steelers, Packers or even be part of 10 RB's in New England), but he's starting to break down also. Getting the majority of the load, broke him and David Wilson transitioned into the starter. He could be a saving grace to CJ and vise-verse. Other guys like Tim Hightower or Peyton Hillis, guys looking for one more shot, would be a good fit for the Titans.

The draft itself doesn't have that once in a lifetime player at the RB position, and teams aren't looking to draft one early. Which means the Titans could get a steal or a great value player in the mid to later round. The Titans more than likely will be drafting O-line or Defensive help in the first 2-3 rounds, but the possibility of a good running back in 3rd or 4th round would be perfect. Eddie Lacey from Alabama will be drafted in the late first or second round. After that who know's where any of the remaining backs are going. Two backs I would be ecstatic for the Titans to draft with one in the 3rd or 4th would be Wisconsin workhorse Monte Ball or Oregon RB Kenjon Barner. Both are explosive (Barner a tad more with the offense he was in), but Ball could be a perfect fit for spelling CJ. Most draft expert's don't see either going in the first 3 rounds so they could even be there at 4. The biggest red-flagged, but most reward for risk would be Marcus Lattimore. I know some people roll their eyes, but hear me out. Injured both knees and missed both Junior and Senior season, still I say take a chance. Frank Gore was chronically injured in college and Willis McGahee had a horrific injury in the championship game (trust me I saw it, I'm a buckeye fan), both those guys sure did turn out alright. Arian Foster wasn't the cleanest bill of health in college or his first years, but both have done quite well. Lattimore could be that guy, and he has a nose for the goal-line. Hometown guy Zac Stacy could be a perfect fit also. He did quite well with a Vandy O-line, who are greatly under-rated bunch, but hey it's Vanderbilt (sorry, beat a top SEC program like Florida or Georgia then will talk about how great they are. Sorry I'm a pessimist). Still Zac would be great, he's another touchdown hawk, who's played in the SEC. There are others available in the draft as wee.

Point being if were talking about upgrading every position, then backup RB is something that needs to be addressed. If you wanna surround your play makers to help them be more successful, then you gotta create competition. Not only that, you could get another play maker in the process.

Poll

Should The Titans Draft or Acquire a Running Back to Help CJ.

Yes, in Free Agency

44 votes

Yes, early in the Draft

10 votes

Yes, late in the Draft or unrestricted rookie free agent

62 votes

No, re-sign Ringer and Raynard

4 votes

120 votes | Poll has closed

NFL Draft 2013: Should The Titans Trade Their Pick?

Michael A. Lombardo — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:27:29 -0000

The Titans currently sit at the 10th spot in this years draft, and the general consensus by most mock draft experts is they will draft an offensive lineman, more specifically a Guard. Some other mock drafts show the Titans drafting a rush-end. So with that being the general consensus and the draft being loaded with offensive line talent and also a fair amount of defensive lineman, should the Titans trade their number 10 pick and get more picks?

My answer is yes, for the most part. Now Chance Warmack is as solid as an offensive lineman prospect as you'd want, big, mean, mauling, and overall he's polished and ready to start now. With that being said about Mr. Warmack, Barrett Jones from Alabama, Johnathan Cooper from North Carolina and countless other Guards should be around later in the draft. There aren't a lot of teams looking for interior line help like the Titans, except two teams who pick before the Titans, that being Kansas City and Cleveland (potentially Buffalo if they lose Levitre, who I hope the Titans take a run at, since Jarius Byrd is looking closer to being Franchised and not Levitre). San Diego and St. Louis are looking for O-line help and Dallas and Chicago are looking for interior lineman, but almost all 4 of those teams are looking for immediate help at skill positions. So the risk is not as high if they still want one of the more coveted interior lineman if they traded back.

Who would trade up in this draft?

Well you can never rule out, the Redskins, who are looking to upgrade around RG3 and need some help in their secondary. Dallas is always pretty active on draft day and they need help anywhere on the D-line and some help at linebacker with the ageing DeMarcus Ware. The Baltimore Ravens could look to get some linebacker help with Ray Lewis officially retiring. Some teams are looking to trade back into the first round, someone that needs a QB who won't chance waiting. A team like K.C. or even the. So there are teams in need of talent later in the draft who could move up, or a team who is looking to get back in the 1st round.

What about cornerback?

If the Titans are looking to try and get a decent cornerback in the draft then it wouldn't be wise to trade your pick away. Still there isn't that real next-generation cornerback in the draft this year, like their have been in the past drafts with Patrick Peterson or Morris Claiborne. Unless the Titans want Millner from 'Bama or Johnathan Banks from Mississippi State. More than likely they can get a value pick in the second round like Xavier Rhodes from FSU, if he's still there and the Titans get say two 2nd round picks, then they are in the perfect position to get what they want.

What about defensive line?

As most of you saw this week, the Titans are looking to upgrade the position or at least solidify with veterans like Chris Canty, there is also the possibility the Titans take a shot at Osi Umenyiora if he test's the market. If Cliff Avril isn't franchised you can bet the Titans give him a call. Even if the Titans don't make a splash in free agency then the draft has a load of defensive lineman this year. Forget about the top 5 guys and look at late first to early 2nd rounders, guys like Alex Okafor from Texas, who has looked beastly at times, and sometimes he's looked inconsistent, but could be there if the Titans trade down. Sam Montgomery is another guy who could be around the same time Okafor is.

So trading down isn't a bad thing especially in this years draft. The Titans actually lucked out in the sense that their draft needs, OL or DL, there just happens to be an abundance of. So trading down in this years draft could be the best option for the Titans.

Poll

Should the Titans trade their pick and get other picks?

Yes, we need the depth.

50 votes

No, the pick is to valuable .

37 votes

Lets see after free agency.

99 votes

Doesn't matter either way.

3 votes

189 votes | Poll has closed

Tennessee Titans Salary Cap Figures and Potential Cap Casualties

Michael A. Lombardo — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:08:11 -0000

Today the Tennessean posted online that the Titans have the 8th lowest cap number. Even with the guaranteed 10 million due to CJ by Friday, they will still be under 19 million dollars. That mean's plenty of money for the Titans to spend on March 12th, which is only 5 weeks away, I can't wait. What does that mean for certain potential cap casualties like Eugene Amano or Jordan Babinuex? The Titans could free up another 13 million dollars to clear up even more space and make a dent in Free Agency. The Titans could go on a 2012 Tampa Bay Buccaneer spending spree, in which they got G Carl Nicks and WR Vincent Jackson.

Potential and almost certain Cap Casualties.

G/C Eugene Amano is at the front of the list as far as I'm concerned. Coming off a season-ending injury and the season play that was preceded before that, almost guarantees he will be gone. His cap number for the 2013 season would be 3.94 million. That's almost 4 million dollars that could be spent somewhere more useful, like getting Andy Levitre or Brandon Moore.

S Jordan Babineaux is another glaring cap hit. With the horrendous play of the safeties and with Babs inconsistency especially, he could be out the door. He will be 31 at the beginning of the season and you've already got Robert Johnson and Afalava both getting plenty of experience this past season, include Markelle Martin coming off IR, and the impending idea of drafting or picking up a safety in the draft, thinks look bleak for Jordan. He will count 1.6 million against the cap, more money to save.

WR Lavelle Hawkins will count 1.9 million dollars against the cap. I had no idea you could make 1.9 million for such mediocre production. Lavelle hasn't set the world on fire as the Titans 5th wide-receiver. With Marc Marini coming back off IR and the fact we have another KR returner in Reynard, Hawkins release is almost all but certain. I know the Kenny Britt situation makes you think twice of about thinning out the WR's, but all signs point to Britt not being suspended for the situation he was part of earlier this year. So take that 1.9 mill and spend it somewhere else.

Players who could be cap hits, but will probably still be on the roster.

G Steve Hutchinson will be 37 years old and will cost 4.75 million against the cap. Now I know he could almost be a guaranteed cap casualty with that age and price tag, but hear me out. Titans still need leadership and someone a young player can learn from. If all signs point to Chance Warmack or Barrett Jones or Johnathan Cooper being drafted to become our new G for the future, then who better to learn from then a gritty seasoned vet like Hutch.

QB Matt Hasselback will enter the last year of his contract 5.5 million against the cap. That's biggest number for a cap hit (other than CJ), and rightfully so. I know he didn't look like the Matt of old when he played in relief of Jake Locker, still he is a solid backup. As the NFL has progressed through the years and the QB position has evolved, the back-up QB is almost just as important as your starter. So keeping Matt for his last year is essential.

T Mike Otto will 1.7 million against the cap, and he was part of that walking wounded offensive line. With David Stewart going down injured and along with everyone else on the O-line being injured at one point or another this past season, having a decent backup is essential. So I would bank more on Otto staying then being cut for 1.7.

Players to important or valuable to cut.

The biggest number and most important player is Chris Johnson. He will count 10 million against the cap, and I know some people think it wouldn't be a bad idea to free up that money and dump him. Let me say this right now, THAT WOULD BE THE DUMBEST THING TO DO. It would be about as dumb as not letting Steve McNair workout at the facility, which the Titans stupidly did. Bite the bullet and pay the man!

The even more polarizing player the Titans should not make a cap casualty is S Michael Griffin. He will 3.5 million against the cap, and 1 million dollar roster bonus as well by Friday. Bringing his total to 4.5 million. I know most of you on here would hate to see number 33 still on the roster after Friday, but guess what its gonna happen. It should he will be back playing FS and SS which he did this past season, so his play should get better and hopefully he can play at his pro-bowl level he is capable of.

So with the already 19.4 million add on Amano, Babs and Hawkins and that's 26.84 million in cap space. with Hutch potentially Hutch, Hasselback, and Otto that could be 38.79 million. And just for the hell of it here what it would be with CJ and Griff, 53.29 million, but what would we have left on the team? Talk about re-building!

Where can the Titans find help at guard?

Michael A. Lombardo — Sun, 20 Jan 2013 06:21:26 -0000

This past season one of the most glaring problems the Titans had was with the offensive line. Their lack of durability and lack of talent really shined against the much better competition this past season. By the end of the year they were just counting the warm bodies that were left.

First things first, and I wrote it up in one of my earlier articles, and that is the importance of resigning G/C Fernando Velasco. He was the only player to play all 16 games without injury and did quite well against some decent competition. He is also versatile which is key now-a-days with any offensive line.

Second thing, cut the dead weight. Look it may be harsh to say but there is some players on the O-line who make it worse. LeRoy Harris is one of them. Yeah he had a pretty good outing as the teams center and for some reason the Titans moved him to guard and Eugene Amano to C. Since then that move he's been less than spectacular. The Steve Hutchinson experiment seemed to be a disaster also. I know the Titans were trying to catch that Kevin Mawae magic, and sign a veteran OL who still had some talent left, but his durability is now questioned and he was less than impressive when he played. The biggest dead weight could be Eugene Amano. Before his injury a lot of people were already calling for his head. Now coming off a season-ending injured season, he could turn into a liability if he can't make holes for CJ, or protect Locker. He's a decent sized cap number this coming year and could free up some cap space if the Titans would cut ties (but as this off-season has looked so far, don't except any surprises).

So what are we left with? We need a guard of some sort, so lets start with Free Agency first and see what is available.

OG Brandon Moore from the Jets has shown that he can protect a mediocre QB in Mark Sanchez as he started and played every game this past season injury free. He also has played the likes of Vince Wilfork, Marcell Dareus, and Randy Starks. He was able to make holes for a mediocre at best Shonn Greene. So he would be a great addition to the much maligned Titans.

Redskins OG Kory Lichtensteiger is a name not on a lot of people's radars, but he did quite well opening up holes for Alfred Moris and did a good job protecting RG3 (RG3 because of RG3 not the O-line, remember that) . He doesn't get a lot of press so he could be a steal. He it would be hard to take away an O-lineman from coach Shanhan, but he could be available.

Bills OG Andy Levitre is a diamond in the rough as well. He played for the Bills who are a much better team than most people give them credit for. Change out the QB and the coach (which they have) and they could have been a much better team this year. Levitre was great opening up holes for the dangerous CJ Spiller and gave Fitzpatrick all the time in the world to throw interceptions... Still, he was a bright spot for the team and if he test's the market the Titans should give a call.

Now the draft is looming and to me the smartest pick this year is an offensive lineman. Yes i know some of you are yelling for CB or a pass rusher of some sort. I believe that there isn't that Patrick Peterson type player this year and there haven't been a lot of DE to wow me...so far. The draft is loaded with O-line talent this year and it wouldn't be smart to pass up a future Benji Olson, so lets check some out.

Start with the most obvious OG Chance Warmack and Barrett Jones. Now I know we can't draft both, unless we sell the farm to get both of them which would be dumb. I'm just including both, there from the same team and both play Guard. Now with that said Warmack overall has impressed me more that Jones, but Jones is more versatile. He can play Guard, Center, and Tackle if necessary and be equally effective at all positions. With the past season we had this year with the line he would have been perfect to move around. Warmack is what you want in an offensive guard, mean, strong, a mauler, and can run players over. Will that transfer from the college level to the pro-level will see, but I'm gonna say yes. Most people have Warmack as the number one player and in the top five ranked in the draft.

Travis Frederick from Wisconsin had a great year making holes for Montee Ball, and he could slide to the late first round if the Titans want to trade down and collect more picks. He is as safe as a bet as the first two, he didn't play NFL-like competition in the Big 10, which isn't his fault, but it could be an easier transition if he played in the SEC.

The only other Guard worth drafting early in the first round is Johnathan Cooper from North Carolina. His stock has fallen a little due to durability issues, but he's ranked the 2nd best OG on a lot of boards. He has almost all the same character traits as Warmack, except durability.

Now if the Titans do go CB or edge rusher in the first, there is still some OG talent in the later rounds. Alvin Bailey from Arkansas could be starter out of camp, but probably will be a project player. Matt Summers-Gavin from Cal is also another later pick, he could go in the 3rd and be another project player.

I know an offensive lineman isn't the most sexy pick in the draft, but like I said, it is easily the safest.

Titans Potential Safety Targets in Free Agency and the Draft

Michael A. Lombardo — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 09:25:26 -0000

In the first of my mock free agency/draft scenarios, I am putting together a list of players who the Titans should take a look at.

The first position, which was one of the most glaring problems this past season was Safety. A lot times the middle of the field was wide open, with CB's having to do a lot of over the middle help this past season. It was a glaring problem to say the least. A lot of that could be contributed to Michael Griffin having to play the Strong Safety position more than usual (which he is not used too), and his own in-consistent play, and the carousel of Safety's playing this past season, due to injury or just poor play. I will say that the Titans did draft a potential steal in the last draft in Markelle Martin, but coming off injury in college and then being injured during camp we couldn't see his potential.

So with the uncertainty of Martin and the inconsistent play of Griffin, the Titans need an upgrade of some sort.

The free agent pool actually has some decent safeties out there.

The crown jewel of the Safety free agency class is 49er's Safety Dashon Goldson. He made the pro-bowl last year and is putting on another pro-bowl season. It's hard for me seeing the 49er's not tying him up to a long term deal after the season or slapping the franchise tag on him. His chances of being a Titan are slim, but if he test's the market the Titans should be the first to call him.

LaRon Landry of the Jets signed a one year deal this past season and earned himself a trip to Honolulu. I think some of that can be attributed to him playing the biggest media market, but he has still had a great season. His 28 years old, so he has some decent season's left.

Jarius Byrd of the Bills has shown flashes of potential, but has had the unfortunate luck of playing in Buffalo since he was a rookie. With the change of head coach's he could want out of upper-state New York and he wouldn't break the bank either.

Louis Delmas of Detroit had a great season in 2011, in fact he could've been a pro-bowler if it weren't for Goldson. Then he got hurt and was put on IR, so he is risky. Mainly because he won't want cheap money, and he is entering his prime. Detroit has said they are making it a priority to keep him, but if I were the Titans I would defiantly try to get him (unless he gets tagged).

Ed Reed is going to be a free agent, and as a Titan fan since their inception, that would be weird to see him in the Columbia blue. Still, he has made quite the career in Baltimore, and with them not getting any younger I could see him going into free agency to test out the waters. If the Titans are looking for a quick fix until Martin healthy becomes or they get a late pick they want to groom, they might want to take a chance.

There are some other names out the Titans could get for cheap money. Pat Chung, Jim Leonhard, Yeremiah Bell, or Kenny Phillips will be available.

The draft on the other hand doesn't have a Mark Barron in the group. The Titans could get a decent safety in the 2nd or 3rd depending on the 1st round selection.

Matt Elam of Florida is probably the top of the class for the most part. He played elite competition in the SEC and Florida plays a pro style defense that he can adjust to well. He's great over the middle and can lay a hit or two. He could go in the 1st round with most people tabbing him as the top of the safety class, with the Titans pressing needs at Guard and Pass Rusher I don't seem him being picked at 10th.

Kenny Vaccaro of Texas, is a bigger than Elam and has elite speed and awareness, but with Elam's experience in the SEC he seems to be the best pick at the position. Kenny is still pretty good, and playing in Manny Diaz's defense in Texas could benefit him. Texas defense has struggled the past couple of years, but Vaccaro has been a bright spot. He probably will slide to the second round and the Titans could pick him. We have seen how much they like Texas players.

Shawn Williams of Georgia and Eric Reid of LSU both played in the SEC and both played on great defenses in the nation. I put Reid above Williams, mainly because of learning from John Chavis in LSU. Two player's Chavis coached in LSU were guys named Patrick Peterson and Morris Claiborne, so he knows a thing or two on how to make a player great. Williams is just good also, he's got some size to him and if he slides to the 3rd and the Titans are steal looking for a Safety, he could be the guy. It's hard seeing Eric Reid going past the 2nd, but if he does I hope he is in a Titans jersey at the beginning of camp.

There are some other potential players who could be around the 4-6th for Tennessee. Phillip Thomas of Fresno, Robert Lester of Alabama, CJ Barnett of Ohio State, T.J. McDonald of USC and a couple others will be around.

There will be some talent for that position and the Titans are in need of that.

Mike Reindfeldt and His Failed Draft Choices

Michael A. Lombardo — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 08:52:50 -0000

So there is a lot of speculation swirling around as to why Mike Reindfeldt was fired. A lot of people on the radio and on the internet are saying it's because he wasn't all-in on trying to get Peyton Manning signed, and he slowed down the process. Ultimately making Peyton sign with the now number 1 seeded Broncos. I tend to think that is a fair statement as to why he was shown the door, but there is also more of reason than the failed Peyton signing.

Reindfeldt was the Titans GM from 2007-2010 and then relieving his duties to now Titans GM Ruston Webster. He became the Titans executive vice president and COO after relieving his GM duties. During that time as GM he swung and missed on most of his picks and didn't really make any splash in free agency.

From his 2007-2010 reign as GM he drafted 3 all-pro players out of 37 picks, those three being S Michael Griffin, RB Chris Johnson and PR/KR Marc Mariani. Now I know being a Tennessee Titan it is hard to make the pro-bowl. Unless they make the playoffs, and even sometimes when you they do, they don't make the pro-bowl regularly like someone from Pittsburgh or New England. Still not many of his picks have panned out which have caused a lack of talent on the team as a whole.

He did hit a home-run with the CJ2K pick and Griffin has been quite good through years. His late picks, which usually are a stable of picking hidden gems, haven't really been that good. He did find both our starting corners in Jason McCourty and Alterraun Verner, but beside that the rest of his late picks are very inconsistent. Guard Leroy Harris did show signs of being a breakout lineman, but has been extremely inconsistent since becoming a full-fledged starter. He picked Lavelle Hawkins in the fourth, but Lavelle is at best the 5th wideout. Marc Mariani became an all-pro his rookie year as a return specialist, but before his injury he was starting to fizzle out and didn't become a real weapon for the team. His return to the team this coming year looks bleak with Darius Reynaud turning into an even more dangerous return man.

His first draft in 2007, out of the 10 picks that were made, only three players are left on the roster. Michael Griffin is a starter and Leroy Harris is as well. Harris could be on the chopping block this offseason with the emergence of Velasco. The other player is Mike Otto and if it wasn't for an injured O-line he would probably be on the practice squad or off the team.

His 2008 draft is a one man draft with the pick of CJ2K, but the rest of the class hasn't really made a splash. Jason Jones split for Seattle and Craig Stevens has been a good blocking TE, but not a vertical threat.

His 2009 draft may be his strongest, but the top of the class is still very inconsistent. WR Kenny Britt has shown flashes of being one of the best WR in the game, but since his horrendous injury from last year he looks to have lost a step. TE Jared Cook has also shown flashes of brilliance, but is extremely inconsistency and has turned disgruntled. DT Sen'Derrick Marks is coming off his best year, but he could be the odd man out this offseason with the three other DT being younger and more talented. With a lot of draft experts showing the Titans going after another DT Marks' days could be numbered.

His 2010 draft, which was his last draft as GM, is the most disappointing out of the bunch. Derrick Morgan is starting to live up to his 1st round potential, but it has taken him 3 years to do so. S Robert Johnson was a starter until he was put on IR. Other than Verner the rest of that draft class has turned out to be rather disappointing or injured.

His free-agency pick ups are another story, for another time, but once again he didn't really make a big splash.

Since Ruston Webster took over as GM he has left a far better impression with his picks than Reindfeldt, at least in my eyes. Kendall Wright looked really sharp this year. His linebacker picks have been quite good. Zach Brown, Akeem Ayers and Colin McCarthy (even though injured) have all looked very impressive. DT Jurrell Casey could eventually be all-pro if he keeps getting better, which he has. Mike Martin and Karl Klug have both been great in the rotation at DT. As of right now Jake Locker has been inconsistent, but I consider his evaluation to be incomplete due to injury and not starting a whole season. Hybrid TE Taylor Thompson looked decent considering he played DE all through college. RB Jamie Harper has made some strides as short yardage/goal-line back.

If people wanna have an answer as to why Reindfeldt was fired, you can look at his executive decisions as a factor to his downfall, but look no further than his draft picks.

Notable Titan Free Agents

Michael A. Lombardo — Sat, 29 Dec 2012 05:15:31 -0000

With this sad excuse of a football season coming to a close on Sunday afternoon, its time to start with who are the Titans going to resign?

There aren't any really big time players of note that will be losing like last year with Cortland Finnegan or Tulloch or the year before with Kyle Vanden Bosch, but still there are a couple of players of note.

Really there is only one big player that would be foolish for the Titans let go of, that is Tight End Jared Cook. I see the Titans trying to sign him to a 2 to 3 year deal, and if that falls through then I definitely see him getting franchised. I'll state that letting him go wouldn't be great especially with the obvious shift in a run savvy offense to a pass oriented scheme. He did become disgruntled mid-season with the Palmer ran offense, and his play has been inconsistent, but he did seem open to Loggains system. I see him being happier in the new system and, as long as we are competitive next year.

Guard Fernando Velasco seems like an intriguing free agent. He is going to be un-restricted and to be honest he has done a pretty good job filling in for Eugene Amano, which isn't saying too much, but he is an improvment. With our depleted offensive line he could be a very important signing this offseason. He the only offensive lineman who has actually started and played in all 16 games this year.

Kicker Rob Bironas has been one of the only real consistent clutch players we've had this year, so re-signing him would be essential. Having that reliable kicker is all so important considering all the ups and downs other teams have had to deal with when it comes to kickers (Baltimore anybody?). He has looked a little shaky at times, but when he was asked to go win the game against the Steelers this year, he did it. He still has that clutch gene.

Guard Leroy Harris is another guy who will be un-resticed this offseason. He has had his ups and downs, but my money is he's gone. Amano will be back next year and Velasco has done a much better job at Center that most people expected. There's already a fair amount of money tied up with Amano, and the Titans don't want to tie up to much money in another injury prone O-lineman, not after this season.

Fullback Quinn Johnson is un-restricied this offseason, but its hard for me seeing the Titans keeping him after this year. Colin Mooney seems to be a bowling ball fullback waiting for his chance. The Titans could put that money to better use in free agency than worrying about having two fullbacks, especially with TE Craig Stevens shifting into the H-back position when needed.

Returner/Running Back Darius Reynard will be un-restricted as well. He has had a very good net average on returns this year and also two TD's returned. So I see the Titans keeping him for rather cheap money. He is faster that Marc Marini, but Marini can be used in the slot postion if needed. Still Darius is a cheap re-sign and if he goes somewhere else Marc is still here.

Defensive Tackle SenDerrick Marks has had a steady season this year but with Jurrell Casey, Mike Martin, and Karl Klug all playing better when given the chance I don't see him staying with the team. There can be a better upgrade in free agency and with a lot of "draft experts" having the Titans drafting a DT it seems Marks is on the way out.

Linebacker Will Witherspoon could stay for league minimum, but depending on McCarthy's health this offseason and what the Titans do in the draft he is expendable.

With this sad excuse of a football season coming to a close on Sunday afternoon, its time to start with who are the Titans going to resign?

Linebacker Will Witherspoon could stay for league minimum, but depending on McCarthy's health this offseason and what the Titans do in the draft he is expendable.

Poll

Which player is the most important for the Titans to resign?

Kicker Rob Bironas

16 votes

Tight End Jared Cook

30 votes

Guard/Center Fernando Velasco

16 votes

Guard Leroy Harris

0 votes

Defensive Tackle SenDerrick Marks

1 votes

Other...

0 votes

63 votes | Poll has closed

It's Almost Over.

Michael A. Lombardo — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 06:49:43 -0000

On Sunday afternoon I found myself watching the RedZone channel more than my own team, and the funny thing is they were on there more than any other team. Just not scoring of course. I'm sure most of you were doing the same thing. This loss is a tad easier to swallow than the at home Chicago blowout or the New England blizzard blowout a couple of seasons ago, at least it was to me. Why was this easier to deal with you say? Simple answer; low expectations. If you said, the Titans are gonna win today after that win on Monday night, with that patchwork offensive line we have, you are in denial. If you did, I applaud your faith in the team.

Look at it this way. How much lower can this team fall? After the Chicago loss i asked the same thing and I was a tad surprised they can sink even lower than that. Even with todays loss being quite the embarrassment the Titans can't really sink lower than this. Even with this coming Sunday's season finale against the Jag's could potentially be a loss, it's a win in some way.

Biggest reason it's a win even in a loss, the debacle this season has become, is finally over. It sucks to watch other teams in the playoffs, realizing that it sure would be nice to see your own team. After this past season aren't you just glad it's finally over. I know I am, and one of my favorite things to do during the offseason is mock-draft and look at potential free agency.

The draft is going to be the most important draft the Titans have had in years. Will they actually draft for need this year or are they going to take the best available? I liked the Kendall Wright pick this last year, but with hindsight being 20/20, wouldn't they had been better to take an offensive guard or some kind of secondary player. This coming draft the Titans will be picking around 6-9 in the first round depending on how next weeks games play out. We will get the guy we want and he will have to make a difference immediately. What are we gonna go with and offensive lineman, and edge rusher, or a shutdown corner of some sort? One of those positions would be perfect for the Titans to fill with or are we gonna go with something else i.e. Linebacker or even a defensive tackle? Will find out.

No more injuries finally. The Titans have 1 offensive lineman from camp that is still playing and he is the massively under-apprecaited Michael Roos. Eugene Amano, David Stewart, Steve Hutchinson, Leroy Harris, Kevin Matthews, and now Mike Otto all being put on injured reserve is extremely disheartening and at the same time its impossible to stop a any kind of pass rush from any team. Jared Cook, who was finally getting into somewhat of an offensive groove, got a hip injury and is out. Safety Robert Johnson is out. Do I need to go on?

The potential for a change at the head coaching position is a good thing to look at this offseason. I have been an adamant supporter of coach Munchack, but he is not getting it done. Yes, he was dealt a bad hand when he was offered the job during the lockout and had to fill his staff at the last minute. Still you are an NFL coach and you should be able to work with what you have and make it work. He has not. A little fresh blood wouldn't hurt at the head coaching position. There is an array of college coaches looking to make the next step. Oregon Ducks head coach Chip Kelly comes to mind. He has said he would go on to the next level if the right situation is available. How many ex-head coach's would like a crack at it again. Brian Billick comes to mind (yes loyal Titans fans how would think about ex-Ravens coach Brian Billick as our coach, well drastic times call for drastic measure). How many assistants are looking to jump at the bit to become a head coach, defensive coordinator Perry Fewell comes to mind. So change can be a good thing and with the recent comments by owner Bud Adams, heads could roll after the last game.

So really this last game was like taking off a band-aid, a really large band-aid. Very painful but thank god it is over, and we have one more band-aid to take off. Hopefully it won't be as painful as this last one.

Optimism for the Future, and Other Reflections From Monday Night

Michael A. Lombardo — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 06:35:01 -0000

Most of you on this site witnessed that Monday night was about as ugly as a win could be, but in the end the win made the team look better overall. For every negative that happened on the field usually a positive took place right after. The swings of momentum were definitely in the Titans favor.

First I'll start the negative aspects of the game just to get those out of the way.

Stop the penalties. There was just a lack of mental focus, 14 penalties for 111 yards usually would kill a teams chances at winning. DT Marks got two, one for offsides and lining up in the neutral zone. The roughing the passer penalty was rather ticky-tacky, but still you can't touch a QB anywhere near the head. The pass Interference call was ridiculous, but a judgement call of course. Too many holding calls, which killed a lot of drives (you can blame that on a wounded in-experienced O-line).

Jake Locker not completely winning over the opinion of a lot of fans. After the game I was asked by a handful of people is Locker the answer. My answer, based on what I've seen so far, is incomplete. He seems to lack touch and not so much accuracy. He can dink and dunk passes all over the place, but when it comes to fade route or a post pattern he put's too much air under the ball, he overthrew Britt twice on wide open passes (even with Cromartie draped all over him). He needs to work on his touch more than anything.

After the home-run TD by CJ, he was completely shut down, I blame that more on the patch-work O-line, but still you're CJ2K you're supposed to make people miss and get yardage.

Britt isn't completely ready to become the dominate wide receiver we had hoped for. He's having trouble with elite competition which being the number 1 wideout he's gonna see the best of the best corner backs every week. He needs to become more physical and not afraid to go after the ball to make those big catches. Not everything can be blamed on him, look two paragraphs up at the Locker criticism.

Now with that out of the way lets get to the positives.

Zach Brown could be Keith Bulluck version 2.0. That guy was all over the field Monday night. 6 tackles a couple for a loss, 2 sacks, and the key fumble recovery to seal the deal. This type of play is very welcomed and without the field general, Colin McCarthy in the middle, to help him out. Brown and the Will linebacker (Weak-side for you non-lingo football fans) Akeem Ayers could be quite the dynamic duo as the years go on. A colleague pointed out how some draft experts said he was allergic to contact, he then stated, "I just don't see that." I agree with the latter statement.

CJ still has that elite speed. He ran 94 yards in 10 seconds, longest play from scrimmage in Titan/Oiler Franchise history. If he wasn't shut down completely in the first 2 games and also dealing with a depleted O-line, he could've had a much larger year this year. As it stands he's probably gonna get 1300 to 1400 yards. Which is quite a feat since a lot of critics and so called 'experts' wrote him off. Plus he's quite a classy guy paying tribute to the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary school tragedy, by writing their names on his shoes. Classy move.

The defense for once looked feisty and were making plays. We haven't seen the defense play this well since the Dolphins game. McCourty and Griffith recorded four interceptions, and yes I know some of you will say it was Sanchez, but still your supposed to pick off struggling QB's. One thing they haven't done well until Monday night. Derrick Morgan looked the part of a playmaking edge rusher against some good competition in D'Brickshaw Ferguson. He was applying pressure and recorded a sack, he is starting to look like he is living up to the first round hype.

Even with the criticism of Locker and his lack of touch, he did look posed and wasn't afraid to run with the ball. Yes his stat line was very pedestrian, but he lead the team down the field and he scored a very blue-collar looking touchdown that Mr. Air McNair would've been proud of. He looked gritty and ran it in to take the lead, and that lead held. Granted we all wanna see that 2 minute winning drive, but right now with the season we've had so far this will suffice until that moment.

Overall it looked reminiscent of the Titan hey-days where the game was extremely ugly, but the end product was the win and that's all that matters. I know the thought of keeping the high draft status would've been nice, but it's always nice to get a win.

First I'll start the negative aspects of the game just to get those out of the way.

After the home-run TD by CJ, he was completely shut down, I blame that more on the patch-work O-line, but still you're CJ2K you're supposed to make people miss and get yardage.

Now with that out of the way lets get to the positives.

How did this happen? How did the Titans end up with such a horrendous season?

Michael A. Lombardo — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 08:34:29 -0000

Got the Titan's blues, do you find yourself leaving the game in mid-third quarter? Do you turn off the T.V. or to another game on Sunday's after halftime? Do you look more at your fantasy stats then your own team because they don't have any stars to pay attention too? I'm not surprised.

Titan fans have seen much better seasons since the inception of Tennessee Oilers playing their inaugural game in Memphis. Right now loyalty is being tested amongst Titans fans. A lot are asking themselves, how did this happen, why can't we get players/coaches like *insert team here*, why is RB/WR/QB/DEF playing so poorly? It's really a combination of problems.

1. Injuries: Lets start with the obvious here, 4 out of 5, O-linemen are on injured reserve. The game is won in the trenches, look around the league and the best teams have a strong offensive line (Denver, Houston, New England) they have chemistry and can protect their QB along with creating holes for the RB's. Cook is now on IR and it couldn't have come at a worse time. Right now when an offense that finally suits him is starting to take shape. S Robert Johnson has been put on IR, he hasn't been that spectacular, but he needs play-time for his maturation process. Our "Mike" LB Colin McCarthy (the heart and soul of the defense) has been injured the entire season and has missed a fair amount of games this year. Britt took longer to be completely 100% than initially anticipated, and he still isn't mentally 100% sure to push it too hard. The list for injuries is long and growing, you can't expect a team that looks like the walking wounded to win many games.

2. Inept Coaching: Jerry Gray is almost 100% guaranteed to be out the door at the end of the season unless his defense becomes the '85 Bears over night. The secondary has been burned a lot, they are not playing physical football, and there isn't a consistent pass rush. One week the D will have 6 sacks, then the next two they won't have a single sack.

Chris Palmer leaving town should've come as no surprise to anyone. His play calling bordered on predictable to outright dumb. One series of calls would be CJ on 1st, 2nd, and then on 3rd a long screen pass. Next series it would be shotgun formation pass 1st, pass 2nd, then on 3rd and long draw. Plus don't get me started on not giving the ball to CJ on 3rd and 1 at least one time during the game. You can't be fooling defenses in the NFL with that sort of play calling, and keeping playmakers like Cook on the sideline and out of the game plan. Not real smart Chris. Munchak could also be on his way out if the Titans lose their last 3 games, especially if they embaress themselves on national TV this coming Monday. He has had some lapses in judgement this season that has costed the Titans a couple of close games.

3. Poor Playing: Dropped passes, penalty killing drives, fumbles near the goal-line, interception that have been turned for six, you name it the Titans have done it. I can encompass two plays that signify the Titans season. In week 3 at Minnesota, 4th and 6, The Titans try a fake punt and convert the six yards for a first down around midfield. The next play is 1st and 10, what happens? CJ fumbles on the handoff and the Vikings go and route the Titans. That one play encompasses Titans fan base this season. Optimism and hope at the beginning of the season, turning into a nightmare that just won't stop.

4. Draft Picks and Free Agents Not Panning Out: Jake is still a work in progress and what sucks for him is the changing of the OC's. That can really stunt a QB's mental growth, just look up Vince Young as reference if you fans forgot. Kendall Wright and Zach Brown have looked well but name me anyone else we drafted this year playing up to their potential. Same goes for the past 2 drafts. Morgan hasn't panned out and Verner and McCourty are both being exposed. Steve Hutchinson was going to be a Kevin Mawea-ish pickup, but his injury has now sidelined him. Wimberly has done well at times, but he hasn't turned into the premier pass rusher we had hoped for. GM Ruston Webster and Team President Mike Reinfeld have got to do a better job at equipping the team for the future. They need to have another set of offseason signings like in '07, they gotta open up that checkbook.

5. An uneasiness amongst the organization itself. Bud Adams is turning into a dark cloud of sorts. Of course he owns the team and should be able to say what he wants to motivate his players. We do not need a Jerry Jones, Al Davis or Ralph Wilson situation in Nashville. Those teams have a much bigger problem with owners trying to make personnel decisions and we don't need that from Bud right now. The all-in approach to get Peyton, made you miss out on some other big free agency names (Asante Samuel and Mario Williams come to mind). Those teams look much more dysfunctional than the Titans, but it could easily turn into that with an unstable clueless owner. I wanna win a Super Bowl Bud, and I know you don't have much time left. Help ensure that your team will be competitive to win if you don't get too involved with team's everyday decisions, on and off the field. Let the people you hired try to make it work, be patient.

All in all the Titans are a mess from head to toe, but I will say there is a cause for optimism. For one the Titans are an extremely young team right now, and they have caught some un-lucky breaks. Locker still has work to be done and we now have a fresh OC who has looked okay in his first two games. They will be drafting high this year and have the pick of the litter for an Offensive Lineman, Cornerback, or Defensive End, and this years draft is loaded with defensive talent. If Bud does pull the trigger on Munchack to be fired, there are some good coaches that are out there, whether college or pro.

Just keep the faith Titans fans, and realize one thing... We could be worse, we could be Oakland or Cleveland.

Should the Titans consider trading Chris Johnson for Draft picks?

Michael A. Lombardo — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 08:18:46 -0000

It is certainly a growing dilemma in the Music City. Should the Titans keep Chris Johnson in the hopes that he can help Jake Locker and co. bring a championship before he starts to have more wear and tear? Or should they trade him when his value isn't the highest, but he still is an explosive player who can break it at any moment?

With the firing of OC Chris Palmer last week and the promotion of QB coach Dowell Loggins (lets not forget old Colts "heyday" OC Tom Moore brought in as an offensive consultant), there seems to be an offensive culture change in Nashville. With that comes the idea the Titans bread and butter run first and pass when needed offense is changing to a more vertical offense. A lot of the passing in this past week's game was from playing from behind, but the more passing we see, the more the Titans are relying less and less on CJ.

Some of the latest news to come out of Titans camp is they want to get the ball in Kenny Britt's hands more often and CJ is starting to growing disgruntled with his role in the offense especially after this past week's game against the Texans. Plus it is taking Locker a tad longer to mature as an accurate passer, but that can also be blamed on a couple of other team issue's (i.e. decimated O-line, dropped passes, his injured shoulder, and changing of OC's).

I can see why CJ is disgruntled, at the same time Britt is a playmaker and could be one of the best wideouts in the game when healthy (and catch when thrown to). Throw in drafted Kendall Wright and TE Jared Cook you have yourself a vertical core.

The CJ argument is, if he's still playing here and you're paying him 10 million a year, feed him the ball as much as possible. He can break a long run at any moment, and if he has a healthy O-line on the same page he could possibly run for 2K again.

If I were the Titans GM Ruston Webster I would think long and hard about fielding trade offers when the offseason arrives. Think of a team that needs a running back right now, who could really benefit. The Jets come to mind, also if Ryan Matthews continues to play below expectations the Chargers could be looking for a new back. Think about the ego-mania of Jerry Jones and if how he would love a speed demon such as CJ to join the Cowboys. Old Titans coach/new Rams coach Jeff Fisher I'm pretty sure would like to have CJ on his team. If any of those teams would want to pay a kings ransom in draft picks I would say pull the trigger, and let them deal with the 10 million a year cap hit.

If they're gonna keep him in Nashville, while a vertical scheme begins to take shape, they better find a way to keep him on the field until the wear and tear of being an NFL running back starts to take its toll.

Poll

Should the Titans keep CJ2K or should they trade him for draft picks?

Yes, trade him and collect draft picks.

19 votes

No, keep him and take the cap hit.

20 votes

Wait and see by the end of the year.

8 votes

47 votes | Poll has closed