Despite securing a win in their initial preseason match against the San Francisco 49ers, the Tennessee Titans' recent performance has sparked worry among fans, largely due to their offensive line's display. Quarterback Cam Ward's subpar completion rate, falling below 50%, highlighted vulnerabilities that the team will need to address.
A notable bright spot was the starting offensive line's ability to protect Ward, who faced minimal pressure. Rookie Fernando Carmona has emerged as a promising candidate for the starting right guard position. However, the situation quickly deteriorated once backup linemen took the field, revealing significant weaknesses. Austin Deculus, playing left tackle, struggled considerably, with Pro Football Focus assigning him a low pass-protection score after he allowed two sacks. Conversely, Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson, an undrafted free agent from the previous year, delivered a steady performance at right tackle, prompting speculation about his potential role as a swing tackle.
The challenges extend to the guard positions, where veteran Cordell Volson and Jackson Slater underperformed, further solidifying Carmona's claim to a starting spot. Given these concerns, there's a growing sentiment that General Manager Mike Borgonzi may need to explore external options to bolster both the guard and swing tackle positions, particularly with Deculus's struggles underscoring a critical need for improvement in the tackle rotation.
The preseason's opening week has unequivocally confirmed existing apprehensions regarding the Titans' offensive line. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively will be crucial for the team's success in the upcoming season. A strong and cohesive offensive line is the bedrock of any successful football team, providing the foundation for both the running game and the passing attack. Overcoming these early challenges will demonstrate the team's resilience and commitment to excellence, ultimately paving the way for a more competitive and triumphant season.
