The Tennessee Titans picked up a critical victory on Sunday, defeating the Arizona Cardinals 22-21 via unlikely fashion in Week 5. Veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett had one keynote, totally fluky moment. In spite of that heads-up play, the unfortunate reality is that Lockett has looked totally finished this season.
As the Titans were mounting their comeback, Cam Ward's 3rd-and-2 pass from the Cardinals' 20-yard line was intercepted and subsequently fumbled into the end zone. Lockett recovered it for a touchdown, setting up the offense to eventually be in a position for a game-winning drive. It was the biggest play Lockett has made this season.
The Titans signed Lockett to a one-year contract before the 2025 NFL Draft. The prevailing thought was that his experience would be beneficial to Ward's rookie season. If that's the case, it hasn't been evident via on-field results.
Tyler Lockett already looks washed just 1 month into 2025
Lockett was signed to play the slot receiver spot in Brian Callahan's 11 personnel offense. He replaced Tyler Boyd, who looked past his prime in 2024. Lockett has been even worse, registering just seven receptions in five games for 52 yards and zero touchdowns.
Lockett has played the third-most snaps among Titans receivers. Only Calvin Ridley and Elic Ayomanor are out-snapping him. The Titans should consider giving Lockett's snaps to rookie wideout Chimere Dike. That process may already be underway, with Dike out-snapping him 33-17 in Week 5.
Lockett has the lowest receiving grade (49.0) among Callahan's wideouts, according to Pro Football Focus' grading system. His 7.4 yards per reception is significantly lower than Ridley's (18.1) and Ayomanor's (12.1). Ward's quarterback rating is just 55.4 when targeting Lockett, also second-worst among Titans receivers.
Lockett is a decorated receiver and locker-room favorite. His leadership, personality, and experience is worth having around. But as a receiver, the 33-year-old obviously isn't what he once was. The rebuilding Titans should continue gradually replacing Lockett with Dike.