..."/> ..."/> ..."/>

Tennessee Titans fans are witnessing the rise of Jonnu Smith

NASHVILLE, TN - DECEMBER 15: Jonnu Smith #81 of the Tennessee Titans carries the ball for a first down during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at Nissan Stadium on December 15, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. Houston defeats Tennessee 24-21. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - DECEMBER 15: Jonnu Smith #81 of the Tennessee Titans carries the ball for a first down during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at Nissan Stadium on December 15, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. Houston defeats Tennessee 24-21. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 4
Next
(Photo by Silas Walker/Getty Images)
(Photo by Silas Walker/Getty Images) /

Future Projections

Given the nature of the Titans offense, it’s not fair to expect Smith to post numbers like fellow tight ends Travis Kelce or Zach Ertz, who act more as wide receivers than blocking tight ends in their respective pass-heavy offenses.

The Titans rely on the ground game and Derrick Henry to set up the play-action pass for Ryan Tannehill and the wide receivers. A.J. Brown and Corey Davis are a handful for opposing secondaries while the Titans have shown an ability to develop and exploit tight end matchups in recent years.

More from Titan Sized

Smith’s impact will be mostly felt lining up on the line and opening up holes for Henry in the run game. However, the Titans have found an ability to utilize Smith’s speed and physicality, particularly in open field and in the red zone.

If the Titans are going to continue their impressive play through the air, Smith will most likely continue to see significant targets to keep opposing linebackers on their feet. Smith might not post consecutive two-touchdown games, but his impact will be felt as long as he shows his ability to block and use his motor to find himself open.

Tannehill has shown trust and faith in Smith as the pair have continued to improve their on-field chemistry. It’s a fun pairing as the Titans look to march through the season atop the AFC South