Tennessee Titans fans are witnessing the rise of Jonnu Smith
By Ravi Konjeti
Statistical Improvement
In two games so far, Smith has accrued 8 catches for 120 yards and 3 touchdowns. Smith leads the team in receiving touchdowns and yards per reception while seeing an impressive 12 targets. Smith’s growth and improvement since last season gave the Titans a replacement after letting Delanie Walker walk in free agency this offseason.
Despite losing A.J. Brown last week to injury, the Titans did not miss a beat as they racked up 239 yards in the air. Much credit has to be given to Jonnu Smith, who has started to look the part of a top-tier tight end in the league.
Since the Titans switched to Tannehill under center, Smith has seven touchdowns. Previously, Smith had only collected five in his 2.5 seasons with Marcus Mariota. Another facet in Smith’s growth has been his impressive ability to create explosive plays.
This season alone, Smith has 86 of his 120 yards after the catch. Last season, Smith posted 273 yards of his 439 after the catch. And that is not including his four rushes for 78 yards. The explosiveness has forced opposing teams to gameplan for him while giving the Titans a crucial outlet in the passing game.
In the entire league, Smith has the second most touchdowns and the fifth longest receiving play through two games this season. It’s not an overstatement to say that Smith’s production is starting to rank among the league’s best.