Brian Schwenke: Tennessee Titans Draft C in 2013 NFL Draft, No. 107

Jan 23, 2013; Mobile AL, USA; Senior Bowl South Squad defensive lineman Everett Dawkins of Florida State (93) battles with offensive lineman Brian Schwenke of Cal (57) alongside offensive lineman Larry Warford of Kentucky (67) and offensive lineman Oday Aboushi of Virginia (72) during practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Tennessee Titans had plenty of quality options with the No. 107 pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. Some available players included Barrett Jones, Quinton Patton, Ryan Swope, Jesse Williams, Cornelius Washington and a slew of safeties and defensive ends.

What about Brian Schwenke, a center from California (Golden Bears)? The Titans decided to add more depth on their offensive line, apparently using a “best player available” strategy with the first of four Day 3 picks. Schwenke will likely serve as quality depth behind Fernando Velasco and both of the offensive guards. There’s also the chance that if Chance Warmack or Andy Levitre were injured, that Velasco moves to offensive guard and Schwenke moves to center.

This was a surprising move for a couple reasons. While Schwenke has been considered among the top centers in this draft, it was surprising to see him drafted over Jones, who has the versatility to play every position on the offensive line. Furthermore, it was unexpected because of a greater need at defensive end. There’s no doubt that the Titans need more depth behind Derrick Morgan and Kamerion Wimbley.

Here’s the NFL.com profile on Brian Schwenke. According to the “bottom line:”

"Schwenke has a wealth of starting experience, both at guard and center. Schwenke comes off the ball very quickly, and is sound in his hand placement technique. He plays with a low pad level. Schwenke lacks great power, so he will be a better fit at center."

As of this submission, the Titans have three picks left: No. 142, No. 202 and No. 248. The last two picks are compensatory, which means they’re ineligible for trade.

Will the Titans use No. 142 on a defensive end? Or will they continue their three-year trend of taking a defensive lineman in the seventh round? Maybe the Titans are happy with Keyunta Dawson and Scott Solomon? There’s also the chance that Akeem Ayers gets more playing time at DE than most fans expected.