With nine total selections in the 2013 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans have plenty of ammunition to acquire several early round picks. TitanSized colleague Joshua Huffman recently wrote a great piece discussing the case for trading back into the 1^st round. After analyzing the trade value chart, it’s clear that the Titans have the flexibility to accomplish this without mortgaging the farm.

I agree with being proactive when there’s a special player still on the board, but many skeptics will point to the past success with later round selections. Finnegan, Tulloch, Stewart, McCourty, and Verner were all drafted in the 4^th round or later, and each experienced a significant impact for the Titans. I am not arguing that we should hoard all of our later picks, but there are hidden gems in each and every draft class.

While the Titans are obviously interested in drafting an impact DE for the 2013 season, finding a promising project would also be ideal. The NFL Super Regional Combine just wrapped up at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas, and 219 players attended. These prospects are typically long shots to be drafted, and even longer shots to actually make an NFL roster. Only four players who participated in last year’s Super Regional Combine were even drafted, so that’s important to keep in perspective.

Apr 20, 2012; Walnut, CA, USA; Lawrence Okoye (GBR) wins the discus at 218-9 (66.67m) in the 54th Mt. San Antonio College Relays at Hilmer Lodge Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports

But one prospect stood out from the rest, especially surprising considering that he’s never played American football. Lawrence Okoye (21) is currently the British discus record-holder, after switching to the Olympic sport from rugby in 2010. Since the Olympics, he has expressed interest in once again changing sports, this time taking his shot in the NFL. Most people would have absolutely no chance at this point in their athletic career, but Okoye is a special talent.

Okoye is a physical specimen (6’6”, 304 lbs), but more importantly, he’s a world-class athlete. He impressed at the combine with a 4.78 40-yard dash, 10’5” broad jump, and 35” vertical jump. He’s also a warrior in the weight room, capable of teaching even NFL strength coaches a thing or two. While he has absolutely no experience in American football, he excelled as a junior rugby player before his discus career.

Okoye is by no means ready for the NFL, but his incredible potential alone could get him drafted. He reportedly turned down an offer to attend Oxford University in the fall, instead choosing to focus on his potential NFL career. He’s a focused and articulate man, and he would have no trouble learning defensive concepts and techniques from NFL coaches. While it’s dangerous to draft a player based solely on potential, Okoye may be the exception to the rule. If he’s still available in the 6^th or 7^th round, I would personally love to see the front office take a chance on such a world-class specimen.

You can follow me on Twitter @dfleming22

David Fleming

Nov 4, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) throws under pressure from his own end zone against Tennessee Titans linebackers Colin McCarthy (52) and Zach Brown (55) during the first half at LP Field. Mandatory Credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

The Tennessee Titans have one of the youngest, most athletic linebacker corps in the entire NFL. The front office has invested 2^nd round picks in both Akeem Ayers (23) and Zach Brown (23), drafted in 2011 and 2012 respectively. Starting MLB Colin McCarthy (24) was drafted in the 4^th round in 2011. While McCarthy battled through injuries for much of 2012, Ayers and Brown combined for 11.5 sacks and 197 total tackles, as well as 4 interceptions. That’s incredible production from a rookie and 2^nd year player, and Titans fans can expect both players to continue improving.

As the NFL has transitioned into a pass-happy league, the traditional designation of linebacker has adapted as well. Ayers and Brown are prime examples of this positional evolution, possessing the rare athletic ability to both cover tight ends and rush the passer. McCarthy is certainly more of a traditional MLB, but if he can’t remain healthy, then the Titans have a glaring need in the middle of their defense.

In today’s NFL, many teams are also running both the 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes, requiring talented athletes that break the traditional mold. There are inside and outside linebackers for both schemes, as well as players that may shift to defensive end. In light of the vast changes to the position in recent years, it’s necessary to review a wider sample to paint a clearer picture. Therefore, we will review the top 8 linebackers in the 2013 NFL Draft:

     1.     Dion Jordan, OLB/DE, Oregon

October 27, 2012; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive end Dion Jordan (96) lines up in the second quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

Dion Jordan is a perfect example of the hybrid OLB/DE. Jordan arrived at Oregon as a nationally acclaimed tight end, but his continued growth (6’6”, 248 lbs) prompted the coaches to move him to defensive end. During his 2011 and 2012 seasons, the Ducks utilized him as a drop end, asking him to rush the passer and cover tight ends/slot receivers. He displayed his freakish athleticism at the combine, blazing a 4.60 40-yard dash, as well as looking fluid in the position drills.

Jordan will be a top-10 pick, mark my words. I believe the Jaguars could snag him with the 2^nd overall pick, so the Titans won’t have a chance unless they package several draft picks to move up. Jordan will continue to grow in an NFL strength program, and he has the potential to become a force comparable to Julius Peppers. It’s extremely rare to find an athlete capable of covering slot receivers and overpowering offensive tackles, and therefore Jordan’s name will be called very early in the 2013 draft.

     2.     Barkevious Mingo, OLB/DE, LSU

Oct 20, 2012; College Station, TX, USA; LSU Tigers defensive end Barkevious Mingo (49) in action against the Texas A

Barkevious “KeKe” Mingo is another example of an elite athlete with a diverse skill set. Listed as a DE at LSU, he projects as a 3-4 OLB in the NFL. His combination of size (6’4”, 241 lbs) and speed (4.58 40-yard dash) provides versatility to drop into coverage or rush the passer. However, some scouts are concerned about his lean frame, unsure if he’ll be able to handle the physicality of NFL linemen. It shouldn’t be too much of a concern though, as Mingo projects similarly to the successful Von Miller.

After absolutely blowing up the combine, Mingo has dramatically risen up draft boards. Mingo had 8 sacks in 2011, but that number dropped to just 4.5 in 2012. Mingo has also never recorded an interception, leading many to question his ability in coverage. Mingo has all the athletic tools to succeed in the NFL, but his limited college production makes him a boom or bust prospect. He will likely be drafted in the top half of the 1^st round, but I don’t see the Titans targeting a guy that can’t play DE full-time.

     3.     Arthur Brown, ILB, Kansas State

After transferring from Miami in 2010, Brown excelled during his first year at Kansas State, racking up 101 tackles and being named a team captain. He continued on that success in 2012, once again recording over 100 total tackles and starting every game. His 6’0”, 241-lb frame projects him as an ILB in the NFL, and he plays with consistency and incredible instincts. A shoulder injury prevented him from participating in the Senior Bowl and combine, but his pro day in March helped to alleviate concerns: 4.60 40-yard dash, 32.5” vertical, and 21 bench press reps.

Brown has largely gone unnoticed leading up to the draft on April 25^th. Most scouts project him as a 2^nd round pick, but I have a feeling that some team will consider him late in the 1^st, possibly Chicago or Baltimore. He may lack ideal size, but he plays with unrelenting tenacity and instinctual quickness. If he falls into the 2^nd round, the Titans could consider him as a perfect fit at MLB between Ayers and Brown. I still like McCarthy, but his inability to stay healthy may have the front office concerned.

     4.     Jarvis Jones, OLB/DE, Georgia

Oct 27, 2012; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jarvis Jones (29) celebrates during the game against the Florida Gators at EverBank Field. The Bulldogs won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports

Jarvis Jones (6’2”, 245 lbs) was a one-man wrecking crew during his 2011 and 2012 seasons at Georgia, amassing 28 sacks, 44 tackles for a loss, and 9 forced fumbles. With that type of eye-popping production, why isn’t Jones higher on this list? Unfortunately, he suffered a neck injury his freshman season at USC and was subsequently diagnosed with a medical condition known as spinal stenosis. Georgia doctors later cleared him, but many NFL teams are still wary of the medical condition.

Jones did not participate at the combine, so there was extra pressure coming into his pro day in March. He then disappointed scouts with a 4.9 40-yard dash, drawing concern about his athletic potential. Now teams must decide how to evaluate the two-time All-American. Jones certainly has some red flags concerning his neck and speed, but his college tape shows a dominant force capable of single-handedly changing a game. He will most likely be drafted in the middle of the 1^st round. If the Titans believe he can become a full-time pass rusher, they may consider him at 10^th overall, but it doesn’t seem likely.

     5.     Jamie Collins, OLB, Southern Miss

The athletic Jamie Collins began his career as a safety at Southern Miss, eventually moving to linebacker in 2010. The Golden Eagles had a stellar season in 2011, posting an impressive 12-2 record, including a win in the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. Unfortunately, Southern Miss imploded in 2012, failing to win a single game. Collins, however, played exceptionally well in 2012, earning first-team All-Conference USA honors. He consistently made plays all over the field, breaking up numerous passes and tallying 10 sacks.

Collins followed up his strong season with a stellar combine, ranking as a top performer in several drills. Most notably he displayed his explosiveness, notching a ridiculous 41.5” vertical (2^nd best among all prospects) and 139” broad jump (a combine best). He combines ideal size (6’3”, 250 lbs) with supreme athletic ability, and he currently is projected as a 2^nd round pick. The Titans already have Brown and Ayers patrolling the outside, so they will most likely look for a more traditional ILB.

     6.     Alec Ogletree, ILB/OLB, Georgia

September 29, 2012; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Alec Ogletree (9) tackles Tennessee Volunteers running back Devrin Young (19) in the game at Sanford Stadium. The Bulldogs won 51-44. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Georgia’s hard-hitting Alec Ogletree has garnered some attention as possibly the best ILB prospect in this year’s draft class. He has ideal size (6’2”, 241 lbs) and more than adequate speed for the MLB position. His impressive closing speed may project him as a weakside linebacker in the NFL, as he’s at his best when chasing down ball carriers from sideline to sideline. His immense athleticism is also reflected in the fact that he began his college football career as a safety.

So what’s the catch? Well, Ogletree has experienced a myriad of off-the-field incidences since his time at Georgia. He was arrested in 2010 and charged with misdemeanor theft, causing the team to suspend him for the first game of his freshman season. Heading into the 2012 season, Ogletree was again suspended for four games for violating team rules. When he returned to the field, he was an absolute tackling machine, racking up 112 total tackles in just 10 games. Scouts assuredly noticed his production, but then Ogletree made a another mind-boggling error when he got arrested on charges of DUI, and just days before the combine at that. I hate to point out all the mistakes of such a talented player, but the Titans front office will have to recognize the huge risk that comes with Ogletree.

     7.     Manti Te’o, ILB, Notre Dame

Sep 22, 2012; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Manti Te

Not since the glory days of Tebow has a player been so polarizing and overly scrutinized. I am not a fan of the constant media attention surrounding the girlfriend hoax, so we will focus on Te’o as a football player in this analysis. Te’o had an outstanding senior season at Notre Dame, racking up several national awards including: the Nagurski Award, the Lombardi Award, the Bednarik Award, the Maxwell Trophy, the Walter Camp Award, the Butkus Award, the Lott Trophy, and he also finished 2^nd in the Heisman Trophy voting. He averaged 125 tackles over his last three seasons, displaying an instinctual nose for the football.

Te’o has achieved all the college success (minus a National Championship) that an athlete can ever hope to. Even with all his accolades and solid game film, he could possibly fall into the 2^nd round. He certainly has immaculate football instincts, but his marginal size (6’1”, 241 lbs) and athleticism will limit his potential at the next level. Te’o represents a high-floor, low-ceiling prospect. He will be a solid pro in the league for years to come, but he likely won’t become an elite player at his position. The Titans did formally interview Te’o at the combine, possibly looking for an insurance policy for the oft-injured McCarthy. However, the 2^nd round is likely too high for that replacement, so it’s doubtful that Te’o becomes a Titan.

     8.     Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU

Minter made the most of his lone season as a starter at LSU, compiling 130 tackles and 4 sacks in 2012. His efforts earned him first-team All-SEC honors, and LSU named him the team’s most valuable player. Minter (6’0”, 246 lbs) projects as an ILB in a 3-4 defensive scheme, or a MLB in a traditional 4-3 scheme. He aggressively attacks blockers, never shying away from even much bigger linemen. Minter also has the tenacity and short-area quickness to disrupt interior rushes.

Minter likely will be drafted in the 2^nd or 3^rd round. He is a consistent and fearless tackler, but he possesses only marginal speed. His ability to play in any defensive scheme adds to his value. The Titans might view Minter as an ideal backup to McCarthy, as well as a valuable special teams contributor. If management wants to add depth to the position, Minter would offer great value in the 3^rd round.

Conclusion: As we look forward to the 2013 season, the Titans still have a few holes on a defense that struggled mightily last year. The most pressing concerns lie in the secondary and on the defensive line, so adding another prospect to the linebacker corps may seem like a luxury pick. The Titans signed MLB Moise Fokou this offseason as an insurance policy for McCarthy, but there is little depth otherwise. I imagine they will target someone in the later rounds, unless a pass-rushing hybrid falls to them in the 1^st or 2^nd round.

You can follow me on Twitter @dfleming22

David Fleming

Dec 30, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson (28) runs for a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half at LP Field. Mandatory credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

Hey Tennessee Titans fans. Would you like to be part of a team really cool people who love the Tennessee Titans and pump out content about them every day?

If so, we want you here. We’ve got room for all sorts of people. We do our best to be on top of the news here, so if you love to be the

Writers:

Obviously, we’re always open to new talent. Whether it’s writing up an article about breaking news, an in-depth article about stats, or an opinion article; we do it all. We do have restrictions though. We ask that our Staff Writers produce at least one article a week. That means pumping out content even when things get hard, like during the offseason. We start off all our writers as Contributors until they’ve proven they can consistently produce content on a weekly basis. Then they’ve earned the promotion to Staff Writer.

All our positions are unpaid, but they provide the chance to be part of a team that’s all about the Titans. Writers have the opportunity to interview players and have links to their work shown in links on Sports Illustrated. It gives you a stage to preach your Titans opinions from. It also gives you the opportunity to start building a resumé, whatever job you’re interested in.

Please only serious applicants. I’ll do my best to get back to all applicants. It’s a busy life. All applications for a position on the Titan Sized staff should send a sample article to jstitansized@gmail.com with a little info about yourself and why you’d like to write for the site.

GO TITANS!!!