In recent memory, Tennessee Titans draft picks fell neatly into two categories. There were Pro-Bowlers like Jeffery Simmons, Jack Conklin, Taylor Lewan, and Peter Skoronski will soon join that list. Then there were busts like Chance Warmack, Treylon Burks, Rashaan Evans, Isaiah Wilson, and Caleb Farley.
However, that doesn't mean every draft pick will fall into one of those categories. Titans fans are seeing that in real time with 2024 first-round draft pick JC Latham.
Latham had obvious issues coming out of college, specifically with his weight. It would have been a statistical anomaly for someone of his size to be a consistent starter in the NFL, and you could see him struggling with certain things at the college level because he had to overcompensate for those size issues (like giving up inside moves to pass rushers).
Titans OT JC Latham sheds audacious NFL Draft labels
Latham had a solid rookie season for the Titans, and after slimming down and shifting to his natural position as a right tackle, there were reasons for optimism that he would take a big step forward in 2025. That hasn't happened for Latham this season.
Latham's second season has been more about recovering from a hip injury and getting back up to speed than anything else. It has been disappointing for Titans fans because there was an idea that the team's offensive line could be a strength of the team this season in large part due to the potential development of Skoronski and Latham.
However, the pendulum might have swung too far on this one because people are missing what is right in front of their eyes. Through 22 games, Latham doesn't look like he will ever make a Pro Bowl, but he also doesn't look like an NFL Draft bust.
The more comfortable he gets, the more consistency you can see in his blocking. Between his improved frame and work ethic, he is showing that he has a very high floor as a player. Latham looks like he is a tier above average, and Dan Moore just proved how much an average tackle is worth on the open market.
The Titans have to start hitting home runs as opposed to so many doubles in the draft. Adding a player at Latham's level is a good thing and fans need to embrace that he is a long-term solution at an important position for the Titans.