Tennessee Titans: Anthony Fasano fills 3 critical team needs
By P. L. Colter
The Tennessee Titans’ 2015 roster overhaul featured several high profile moves, leading to a renewed optimism for the good folks of Nashville.
Newcomers Marcus Mariota, Brian Orakpo, Dorial Green-Beckham, and David Cobb stole the offseason headlines, but the acquisition of free agent tight end Anthony Fasano was equally important.
In fact, by season’s end, Fasano may be the steal of the summer for Tennessee. He brings three critical elements that the Titans desperately need.
For starters…veteran leadership. Entering his 10th season, Fasano brings a veteran presence to an otherwise inexperienced group….and his leadership has already been tested.
ESPN Staff Writer Paul Kuharsky reported that he recently witnessed Fasano approach some teammates that were not conducting themselves in a befitting way. Fasano reminded them to remain professional…then quietly went about his business.
He spoke to Kuharsky about being a leader this season…
“It’s an honor to be one of those older guys, that kind of actually crept up on me pretty fast….(continued) It’s an important role that I take upon myself with the other older guys on this team and that will continue to grow.”
Fasano made his name early in his career for being an excellent blocking tight end…a physical extension of the offensive line. A perfect marriage for a Titans team that’s attempting to establish a physical identity this year. He can work alongside the young tackles in the run game this season.
But often overlooked is Fasano’s proficiency in the passing game, a reliable safety net who moved the chains on 62% of his receptions the last five seasons. He’s also a viable redzone option, hauling in 21 tds over that span…mostly from close range.
A critical weapon for a rookie qb that will likely have to check-down a lot early on.
Head coach Ken Whisenhunt wasted no time in getting Fasano involved yesterday. He was even credited with the best catch of the entire practice.
Looks like Tennessee may have killed three birds with one stone.
Next: Tennessee Titans: Training camp day one report