The Tennessee Titans are heading into training camp with a complicated competition at tight end. Starter Chig Okonkwo is entering a contract year and needs to be more consistently productive to earn another contract from the team. The organization is excited about fourth-round rookie Gunnar Helm, who should be versatile enough to play multiple roles on offense as a blocker and pass catcher.
The battle for the third (and possibly final) tight end spot will be fierce throughout training camp and the preseason. Third-year pro Josh Whyle is entering a critical period after failing to meet expectations as a rookie and sophomore. Whyle is clinging to relevancy in a deep position room.
Many have Whyle as a potential roster casualty this offseason. If so, a somewhat surprise candidate could emerge as the Titans' no. 3 tight end. Second-year undrafted free agent David Martin-Robinson is a roster lock, according to A to Z Sports' Easton Freeze.
Titans TE David Martin-Robinson may be a roster lock
Martin-Robinson made the roster last season as an impressive rookie undrafted free agent. The former Temple standout recorded nine receptions on 11 targets for 113 yards during the preseason. Martin-Robinson was a regular standout at training camp practices, using his athleticism to make plays on the ball.
Despite that, Martin-Robinson barely played during the regular season. The Titans probably regretted keeping five tight ends on their initial 53-man roster, as their special teams units suffered greatly as a result. Martin-Robinson earned just 46 snaps on offense, and 55 on special teams. He was a healthy scratch for the majority of the campaign, but found playing time late in a wasted 3-14 campaign.
Martin-Robinson flashed promise late, especially on an improving special teams unit down the stretch. That could be one of the reasons why his roster chances have increased heading into 2025. Furthermore, Martin-Robinson possesses more upside and athleticism on offense than Whyle has displayed.
Thomas Odukoya was the fifth tight end on last season's initial 53-man roster. Odukoya will compete with Whyle and Martin-Robinson for the TE3 role. He's been touted as an expert blocker, but must display all-around strides at camp if he's to make the roster again.
Martin-Robinson is the current leader in the clubhouse.