Tennessee Titans roster: What to expect from every draftee in 2021

Tennessee Titans second and third-rounders

Round 2 draftee Dillon Radunz, offensive lineman:

Next up is second-round draft choice Dillon Radunz. He began camp struggling mightily but appeared to get more comfortable in the preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.  He still has a long way to go to be game-ready against starting defensive ends, but the improvement as of late is encouraging nonetheless.

Radunz will need as many reps as he can get to gain confidence and chemistry with his teammates on the offensive line. Expect him to serve as the backup to starting right guard Nate Davis early on, but the more he can show improvements throughout practice and build his strength in the weight room, his role should increase.

Round 3 draftees Monty Rice (linebacker) and Elijah Molden (defensive back):

The Titans drafted two prospects in Round 3, both on defense, inside linebacker Monty Rice and cornerback Elijah Molden. Rice was thought of as a reach when selected, but he comes from a school that has produced very talented defensive players in the NFL.

What’s standing in his way are starting inside linebackers Jayon Brown and Rashaan Evans. There’s also David Long Jr., so the opportunity won’t be there to make an early impact. Rice will most likely serve as a second-team inside linebacker alongside Long Jr., and he could fill in on run downs if Evans or Brown were to get injured.

Molden was arguably the best value selection the Titans made this past April. He was forged in the same mold as Tyrann Mathieu. Molden should compete for playing time immediately and could make the earliest impact among all Titans rookies in 2021.