The Tennessee Titans are entering the 2025 NFL Draft with a concerning lack of talent at the wide receiver position. New general manager Mike Borgonzi went into free agency with clear needs at the position. Despite that, the Titans have not upgraded the premier pass-catching spot through veteran additions. In fact, they've arguably gotten worse.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine signed a modest contract with the Miami Dolphins in free agency after scoring nine touchdowns in 2024. The Titans did not make a valiant effort to retain him. Instead, they signed veteran wideouts Van Jefferson and special teams ace James Proche II, who combined for 27 catches and under 300 receiving yards in 2024.
As currently constructed, Calvin Ridley is the lone proven difference-maker at the position. The Titans will draft multiple receivers, but they're also going to rely on in-house contributions. One underrated candidate recently received praise from head coach Brian Callahan during the annual league ownership meetings.
Titans HC Brian Callahan praises sophomore WR Bryce Oliver
Bryce Oliver signed with the Titans as an undrafted free agent out of Youngstown State last offseason. Despite routinely starring throughout training camp and the preseason, he failed to make the initial 53-man roster. The Titans quickly signed him back to the practice squad, and he'd eventually find his way onto the active roster during the season after injuries and losses began piling up.
Oliver recorded six receptions for 95 receiving yards in limited playing time. The rookie UDFA averaged an explosive 15.8 yards per catch. Pro Football Focus says Titans quarterbacks enjoyed a passer rating of 118.8 when targeting him. Callahan foresees him playing a larger role as a sophomore.
"Really excited about Bryce's potential," Callahan told Titans reporters during league ownership meetings. "He did some really nice things as the season went along. He's big, strong, and fast. I'm excited about what he could bring [to the offense]. He has to have a good offseason and take that next step."
Callahan also discussed the possibility of Oliver replacing Westbrook-Ikhine in the starting lineup, per Paul Kuharsky. The Titans lack proven assets at receiver. They appear willing to afford first-round bust Treylon Burks another offseason opportunity to prove himself.
The Titans must draft instant contributors at receiver. Callahan also appears to possess faith in Oliver to be a larger part of the offense in 2025. Oliver will be afforded opportunities to establish himself as a mainstay in the lineup.