Can the Tennessee Titans, fresh off a dismal 2024 season, engineer a swift turnaround in the coming years? With a new general manager, a high draft pick, and a determined effort to fortify the offensive line, the team is clearly undergoing a significant transformation, aiming to build a competitive team from the ground up.
The echoes of the 2024 season still resonate in Nashville, a season that concluded with a mere three wins. That stark reality necessitated significant introspection and ultimately, decisive action. The firing of the previous general manager paved the way for Mike Borgonzi, a new voice tasked with navigating the Titans through a challenging period of rebuilding. The acquisition of Kevin Zeitler, a veteran guard, signals the team's intent to prioritize the offensive line, recognizing its critical importance to any successful offense. Zeitler, who last played for the Detroit Lions and played a key role in leading his former team to a balanced offensive attack, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Titans. His presence, along with the projected role of Trey Smith at right guard, offers a glimmer of hope for an improved running game and better protection for the quarterback. The acquisition of cornerback L'Jarius Sneed, a seasoned player with a proven track record, suggests the Titans are also looking to address their defensive deficiencies.
The Ravens, meanwhile, are looking to finalize their roster through the draft process. Their selection of LSU left guard Garrett Dellinger indicates their commitment to investing in the offensive line to provide additional protection for their future quarterback.
The Titans, holding the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft, are in a position to reshape their future. The decisions made in the draft will be critical in determining whether the team can quickly move away from the bottom of the league. General Manager Mike Borgonzi has emphasized a comprehensive approach, stating that "everything is still on the table." This suggests the team is open to all possibilities, including potential trades or drafting the best available talent to bolster multiple positions.
The focus on the offensive line isn't just about protecting the quarterback; it is also about establishing a strong running game. In 2020, David, the starting right guard, played all 16 games and significantly contributed to Derrick Henry's success, as he won his second rushing title and achieved the remarkable feat of exceeding 2,000 rushing yards. With Smith and Zeitler, the Titans hope to recreate such production and ensure the offensive line can open the holes to support the next lead running back.
The situation in Tennessee is reminiscent of the old sports adage: "Hey, you miss 100 percent of the shots you dont take." Borgonzi, and the Titans organization, seem determined to be proactive and seize every opportunity to rebuild a championship roster. The team's willingness to explore all avenues, from free agency to the draft, underscores their commitment to transforming their fortunes.
Adding Zeitler and Moore, alongside Smith, provides immediate stability to the Titans offensive line. Borgonzi's approach is clear: to improve the team by building a strong foundation, starting with the trenches. He is prioritizing the offensive line which is the first thing the team needs to take care of.
This emphasis on the offensive line is not merely a short-term fix; it's a strategic investment in the team's long-term success. A solid offensive line protects the quarterback, opens running lanes, and sets the tone for the entire offense. The presence of a Pro Bowl guard, like Smith, further strengthens the offensive unit.
As the Titans navigate this period of transition, the upcoming draft will be critical. The selection of Garrett Dellinger by the Ravens, as well as the moves made by other teams, offer a glimpse into the strategies other franchises are using to shape their rosters. However, the Titans need to build with a new approach, focusing on the offensive line which is considered to be the most important aspect of all the game.
For the Bears, the arrival of Smith will surely improve their offense in 2025.
The team's rebuilding process is undeniable. Several elements indicate this, and the acquisition of Sneed emphasizes the efforts to reshape their defensive unit.