TCU Horned Frogs’ DL Ross Blacklock will fit right in with Titans’ defensive linemen, Jeffery “Big Jeff” Simmons and Daquan Jones. With the departure of pro-bowl DT Jurrell Casey, the Titans must fill some rather large shoes.
While there has been chatter of the expansion of Simmons’ role — which I don’t doubt — I also believe the Titans brass won’t ignore the hole they’ve just created.
Blacklock has the power, speed, and versatility that make him perfect for a hard-nosed defense led by head coach, Mike Vrabel. Assuming Vrabel and company continue to deploy multiple fronts, Blacklock can adapt on the fly and become a valuable asset early on.
Ross Blacklock, DT, #TCU:
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) March 30, 2020
• Twitched up throughout (+)
• Excellent lateral mover (++)
• True up-the-field penetrator
• Energizer Bunny in between whistles
• Leveled pads all the time (+)
• Tremendous upside pic.twitter.com/XGATYJeBTB
He thrives as a gap-penetrating three-technique, much like Casey, and is patient, utilizing his leverage points to shed blockers when the time is right. Blacklock is a load up front and holds his own through double-teams.
An Achilles injury in 2018 and his lack of awareness at times is, to me, what prevents Blacklock from being mentioned as one of the top defensive linemen in the country.