Tennessee Titans: Is Jeremiyah Love Worth The Fourth Pick?
Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is one of the players in contention for best in this class. His position, however, is not the biggest need for the Titans, is considered to be lower value, and historically starter-level backs can be found in later rounds. Love is a game-changing talent, but would the Titans be better served taking a more valuable position with such a premium pick?
The biggest focus for Tennessee in this draft should be to do everything possible to help quarterback Cam Ward succeed. Last year’s number one pick out of Miami showed flashes of elite play but struggled due to the level of talent in his supporting cast. The Titans’ offensive line, receiving corps, and tight end group, could all use upgrades in addition to running back.
Beyond the offense, Tennessee has a number of needs on defense, mainly edge rusher and linebacker. If a player such as Ohio State’s Arvell Reese is still available at four, it may be hard to pass on his elite potential. The former Buckeye spent most of his college career at linebacker, but showed flashes of elite pass rush ability, leading to reports that his long-term future in the NFL may be as an edge rusher. For the Titans, being able to use Reese at both edge and linebacker and maximize his rare talent is an enticing option.
If Reese is off the board, Tennessee should draft Love to take pressure off of Ward. By establishing a run game that defenses have to account for, the Titans can open up more opportunities in the passing game. Edge and wide receiver are deep positions in this class, and with early picks in every round, Tennessee has the ability to fill a number of needs with quality players. There is no running back in this class comparable to the potential of Love, making him a player the Titans shouldn’t pass on.
