ESPN expert grades Titans 2024 Draft class
If you follow the NFL, you're probably familiar with ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. Given Kiper's depth of knowledge on the annual draft, fans are always interested in his thoughts, and understandably so. With that said, Titans fans should probably be a little worried about what Kiper had to say about the team's 2024 draft class.
The Titans made seven total selections in the draft, and they prioritized the defensive side of the field, as five of their seven picks were defensive players. One of the two exceptions was offensive tackle JC Latham, who Tennessee selected with the No. 7 overall pick.
Kiper gave the Titans a 'C+' for the '24 draft class
Kiper graded every team's class after the '24 draft, and he gave the Texans a 'C+.' Not necessarily an amazing grade, but for what it's worth, only two teams -- the Arizona Cardinals and Philadelphia Eagles -- received an 'A'.
Overall, Kiper questioned Tennessee's decision to draft Latham as highly as they did, despite the fact that offensive tackle was a clear need for the franchise.
From Kiper:
"Yes, the offense ranked 31st in sack rate per dropback (11.1%) last season and allowed 64 sacks, which were the second most in the history of its franchise. But as I wrote Thursday night, I have doubts about whether Latham can play left tackle, and the Titans have now taken a right tackle and guard in the top 11 in back-to-back drafts. Is that the best use of high picks? I'm not so sure, though I do think Latham can be a physically imposing run-blocker.
". . . If Latham makes an easy conversion to left tackle and immediately dominates, this class will look much better. As is, I don't love the value overall."
Only time will tell how good this draft actually was for Tennessee. As Kiper pointed out, if Latham can become a key contributor for the Titans, it will likely be remembered fondly. If not, it could potentially prove to be a forgettable class.