The Titans have a plethora of young talent on their team. This year, their defense will really be highlighted with the moves that have been made. The Titans had their ups and downs on the defensive side of the football last year. This year, let’s hope we can put those downs behind us. Let’s take a look at three Titans breakout candidates.
Harold Landry
It seems weird to have a rookie, whom everyone seemed to love coming into the draft, as a breakout candidate. Landry fell in the draft, and each pick he fell, I imagine Jon Robinson’s mouth watered with anticipation. Landry, a 6’2 252-pound versatile pass rusher, fits in perfectly with what the Titans want to do. The Titans will have the ability to line Landry up in different spots, with hopes of confusing opposing offensive-lines. Landry had 25 sacks in his college career, he’ll be a welcomed presence on the Titans defense. Last season, Derrick Morgan led the Titans in sacks with 7.5 followed by Brian Orakpo with 7. Look for Harold to have ample opportunities to get to the quarterback this year. Leading the team in sacks is something he will certainly be capable of doing.
Jayon Brown
One would think that Jayon Brown isn’t too far away from being a starter on this defense. Wesley Woodyard is still playing at a high level but has struggled in multiple facets. Last year the Titans were awful at guarding running backs and tight ends. This is something that Brown has shown glimpses of doing well. He has the speed to do it, he just seems a little raw, time can obviously fix that. Even if he doesn’t find his way into the starting line-up, Brown has the ability to make a difference. Coming in for certain sub-packages, it wouldn’t shock me to see Brown excel in this defense. Last season Brown recorded 52 tackles and 1.5 sacks, I expect him to exceed both numbers handily this year. Let this serve as your official notice, Wesley. Jayon is coming for your job, what are you going to do about it?
Adoree’ Jackson
Adoree’ Jackson might have the biggest breakout potential of the three, for different reasons though. With the Titans adding Malcolm Butler in the off-season, that might leave Adoree’ as the man defenses go after. Seeing an increased workload would almost certainly cement Jackson in a potential breakout season. Jackson had 17 passes defensed in his rookie year. He by no means had a bad year, I just think the addition of Butler gives Adoree’ the chance to be a great player this year.
Extra Thoughts
However you’d like to look at the Titans defense, one thing is for sure. This defense is young and talented, and they will be around for a while. If the Titans defense is going to make another leap this year, look for these three guys to be leading the way. Adoree’, Harold, and Jayon are all very young, talented players who will look to leave their mark this season. I’m sure we can all agree when I say this: I. Miss. Football.
