Tennessee Titans Perfect Fits at Edge Rusher in the Mid-Rounds

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Titans have won a lot of games over the past two years because of the relentless pressure placed on opposing quarterbacks. It would not be a shock to see them add an edge early in the process of the NFL draft because they are aware how vital the pass rush is to their success. This year’s edge class is a deep one with options throughout the rounds though, so the Titans could wait until day two or three to make an addition. If they choose to wait there are some solid options available to them that would fit the role they need to fill and what Sports Illustrated’s Draft Bible has to say about each prospect.

Keion White, Georgia Tech

White has gotten a lot of buzz lately and may even find himself in the first round, but if the Titans want to add an edge with their second-round pick, White could be a perfect fit. White is a powerful rusher who can play inside in sub packages or rush outside in some circumstances. He could potentially replace Denico Autry’s role in the defense eventually.

DRAFT BIBLE ANALYSIS: “White offers flashes of greatness with his combination of speed, upper body strength, and arm length, but the college football veteran lacks technical development and consistency across the board.”

Nick Hampton, Appalachian State

Hampton will be closer to a day three selection than day two, but that could make him a perfect value. The Titans have Harold Landry returning from an ACL tear and they signed Arden Key in free agency. They also have third-year player Rashad Weaver, but Weaver could potentially be playing more inside this year to spell the aging Autry. If the Titans want to use Weaver more inside then a need opens up for a third rotational outside rusher. Hampton can be that and he also spent some time in college dropping into zone coverage which helps him fit in the Titans zone-blitzing scheme.

DRAFT BIBLE ANALYSIS: “A stringy pass rusher that does his best work as an upfield rusher, wreaking havoc on offenses from a two-point stance.”

Byron Young, Tennessee

Young may not be the powerful edge in the draft, but he plays with great energy and motor. Young has the twitch you want in a pass rusher and the big thing that stands out is his ability to execute stunts and loops. The Titans rush plan always includes twists and loop stunts so knowing Young is skilled at executing those makes him a nice fit in the defense schematically.

DRAFT BIBLE ANALYSIS: “A speed rusher with measurables, if Young becomes a consistent three-down player, his name will be rousing up draft boards.“

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