November 17, 2012; Gainesville FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Matt Elam (22) rushes during the second quarter against the Jacksonville State Gamecocks at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
In WalterFootball.com’s latest 2013 NFL mock draft, the Tennessee Titans hit the defensive jackpot in the first couple rounds, picking a couple of guys who would be immediate starters for them. This isn’t my dream draft, but it’s pretty close. I can’t say I’d be upset if things went down like this. That being said, let’s take a look at the picks the Titans got in this 4-round mock draft:
While CB isn’t a top need for the Titans, or maybe not even a need at all, they present a great argument for the Titans taking Milliner. It’s hard to pass on a top-10 defensive talent, especially when he boosts your biggest area of need; pass defense.
They go on to have the Titans use their 2nd pick to address the same area of need and the biggest hole on defense with S Matt Elam. While Elam isn’t necessarily my favorite safety in the draft, I certainly wouldn’t be complaining if they got him. I’d be happy if they took any of the top-5 safeties. Anything that keeps Robert Johnson off the field works for me. There seems to be a pretty talented group of safeties this year so it’ll be hard to be upset with any safety they take early on.
I won’t pretend like I know anything about the 3rd round pick out of Arkansas, but it addresses another area of need and is about the time I expect the Titans to take an offensive lineman. The Titans will most likely bring in some talent during free agency to shore up the line. After that, they will need to add depth. With Hutchinson preparing to play in the 2013 season, they may only look to add a starting guard to fill the spot left vacant by Leroy Harris.
With the 4th round pick the Titans finally add some depth at defensive end, a spot that’s completely vacant of talent behind Morgan and Wimbley. Free agency should be used to bring in depth at this position as well.
All in all, I’d be more than happy with these first four picks. The Titans secure a sketchy backfield and move up to secure their lines. It’d be purely depth and upside picks after that. Things get even better when you figure in the fact that the Titans are in line to get some great compensatory picks.
I’m getting the draft jitters.
70 days until the 2013 NFL draft.
You can find me on Twitter @JustinLStewart