2015 NFL Draft: Tennessee Titans trade the right pick
By P. L. Colter
If you took a poll of the people familiar with the Tennessee Titans 72 hours ago, I am sure that at least 70% would’ve placed their bets on the team being involved in a draft-day trade.
They were right…well kind of.
With all sorts of trade rumors circling around the Music City in the weeks leading up to the draft, the above listed 70% were placing their bets on Tennessee dealing their number 2 overall pick. That, of course, did not happen.
In the second round the Titans did make a deal that seemed subtle when announced, but could turn out to be a move that puts their rookie qb on the fast track to success.
Tennessee traded the 33rd pick to the New York Giants. In return, the Titans now had the 40th pick of the second round…along with New York’s 4th round pick (#108), and 7th round pick (#245).
With the 40th pick the Titans rolled the dice on the electrifying but controversial wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham. If he would have kept his nose clean in college, there’s no doubt that “DGB” would’ve been selected in the top ten Thursday night.
He’s that talented.
If he can keep his head on straight at the professional level, then Tennessee may have snagged the steal of the entire draft. A high-flying, physically imposing specimen that can do it all at the receiver position.
Green-Beckham was on the Titans radar anyway, so to be able to still get him while adding picks was a win.
With the first pick that they acquired from the Giants (#108), the Titans selected Alabama full back Jalston Fowler. The acquisition of Fowler may be the first indication that coach Whisenhunt is willing to adjust his offense to fit Marcus Mariota.
Fowler has already been told by the Titans that he will serve as a lead blocker, h-back, tight end, and likely special teams contributor.
One of those highly valuable, but often overlooked glue guys.
With Mariota on board, there may now be elements of the spread-option attack installed. Fowler loves contact, and serves as a formidable lead back on running plays. He also serves as a versatile short yardage and goal line contributor. Fowler plays with a physicality…a nastiness similar to starting left tackle Taylor Lewan.
A promising sign if you’re a Titans back.
With the 7th round pick that was acquired in the trade (#245), Tennessee selected wide receiver Tre McBride out of William & Mary. While 7th rounder’s are no lock to make the roster, McBride provides additional depth at the receiver position heading into training camp.
And who knows? Seventh rounder’s have not only made the squad before, but have gone on to have pro bowl seasons for Tennessee. Just ask Cortland Finnegan and Marc Mariani.
Tennessee’s success going forward could very well come down to two things in this draft. The trade that didn’t happen…and the trade that did.