Titans RB Tyjae Spears Named as 'Favorite' Pick by ESPN's Louis Riddick

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Titans may have caught some by surprise when they selected a running back in Tyjae Spears out of Tulane with their third pick in the 2023 NFL draft. The Titans have an expensive and talented running back in Derrick Henry already and the team had significant needs elsewhere. However, ESPN's Louis Riddick seems to think it was a smart move by the Titans.

Riddick named the pick of Spears as his "favorite" pick the Titans made outside of the first round. Riddick said he was looking for players "who could make an impact in year three or sooner" and the Titans have to hope Spears can make an impact immediately.

As I did a year ago, I’m picking my favorite non-first round selections from ‘23 #NFL draft that could
be major impact players by year 3 or sooner. Tried to not just pick obvious 2nd rounders.

AZ: BJ Ojulari - LB LSU
ATL: DeMarcco Hellams - DB ‘Bama
BLT: Tavius Robinson - DL…
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) May 1, 2023

Spears will be the complementary back to Henry from day one, filling the role occupied by Dontrell Hillard in 2022. Spears has the ability to catch passes out of the backfield and can protect the quarterback. Henry may get an assist in another way with Spears who is a talented enough runner to spell Henry in normal duties as well.

Some may wonder why quarterback Will Levis wasn't named by Riddick, but Riddick did mention it was his goal not to select too many second rounders. It is possible he thinks the Spears pick is simply better. Either way, we know Spears will have a role from day one and Levis may sit a year on the bench behind Tannehill. That has to factor in to a decision also.

At the combine, new #Titans RB Tyjae Spears’ medicals showed no ACL, loss of cartilage, and arthritis in his knee (via @RapSheet)

Questions about “if his career can outlast his first contract.” That’s why a player of his caliber dropped to 3rd Round.
— Sam Phalen (@Sam_Phalen) April 29, 2023

Spears could get a huge workload far earlier than expected if for some reason Henry is traded. That is something that has to be kept in mind. There are some concerns about the longevity of Spears due to some medical concerns with his knee, so Spears' career will be limited, best to give him as many chances as they can as early as possible.

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