George Walker IV-USA TODAY Sports
The New Look Tennessee Titans Offense Could Be Surprising In 2023
NASHVILLE - When it comes to the starting offense for the Tennessee Titans in 2023, it will be a very different lineup than the one this team fielded last season.
Gone are veterans like Ben Jones, Taylor Lewan, and Nate Davis along the offensive line, while some young players will now be stepping into more prominent roles as this team looks to improve their fortunes this time around.
On paper, the skill players for this team this year could be one to surprise folks, both inside the league and the fans and media watching.
Here's a look at the offensive skill players that will likely start this season for the Titans.
Quarterback: Ryan Tannehill returns from an injury-shortened season in 2022 and will look to rebound and lead this team in what will likely be his final season in Nashville.
Running Back: Derrick Henry is the leader, but he will have a new running mate in rookie Tyjae Spears, who was electric during the offseason program. Henry should still get the bulk of the carries but expect Spears to see a lot of the third down work, along with being used as a receiver both out of the backfield and lining up wide. He could be a difference-making kind of weapon.
Receiver: DeAndre Hopkins steps into the lead role on and off the field, though it will take some time for him to acclimate with Tannehill. Still, his addition moves the needle for the offensive weaponry for this team.
Receiver: Treylon Burks is the up-and-coming talent out wide for this team, and he showed his growth during the OTAs and minicamp, where his offseason work on his body was evident. Playing alongside Hopkins should only serve to help Burks have a breakout season, as he will likely see more one-on-one coverages
Receiver: Kyle Phillps will work from the slot, and with Hopkins, he now has some relief, whereas, like Burks, he should see single coverage regularly. He flashed his ability in week one last season but was injured and missed the rest of the season. He could turn into another difference-maker this season if he stays healthy.
Tight End: Chig Okonkwo is the top target from the tight end position. He is set for a breakout season, and if he and the others around him stay healthy and on the field together, this offense could present problems for opponents.
Tight End: Three others will find time at tight end opposite of Okonkwo. Josh Whyle is setting up to be the pass-catching partner to Oknokwo, while Trevon Wesco will fill more of a blocking role, and Kevin Rader will likely provide support in all areas.
On paper, this group is an intriguing mix of ability and skill, and as with every team, the offensive line's performance will impact what this unit can become.
As for that offensive line, the additions of Andre Dillard, Daniel Brunskill, and Peter Skoronski, along with the return of Aaron Brewer, who moved from guard, where he spent time last season, back to his natural position at center, are all better pass blocking players, which would seem to be part of the plan in putting this group together.
Add to that the addition of new passing game coordinator Charles London and offensive coordinator Tim Kelly's short, quick passing game and up-tempo offense to help put pressure on opposing defenses, and the possibilities for this unit are enticing.
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