Tennessee Titans: 5 Players set for breakout seasons in 2017

Nov 6, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Tennessee Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) looks on as the San Diego Chargers celebrate a running back Melvin Gordon (28) touchdown during the second half at Qualcomm Stadium. San Diego won 43-35. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 4, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Florida International tight end Jonnu Smith goes through workout drills during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Jonnu Smith, TE

The Titans drafted Jonnu Smith (Round 3, 100th overall) to eventually fill the shoes of Delanie Walker. While Walker has another two seasons on his contract, he turns 33 years old in August. The Titans want to begin grooming a versatile pass-catching tight end, and versatility is exactly what Smith brings.

Smith ran the majority of his routes from the slot in college. The FIU product led college football in receptions from the slot among tight ends in just his sophomore season. Mularkey is aware of the versatility Smith brings and his potential to play multiple roles on offense. The head coach said this of the rookie, via TitansOnline.com:

"“He is going to play both the Y and F tight end for us, and he is going to be an every down player.”"

The TE2 spot is Smith’s to lose. With Walker and Smith being the pass-catching tight ends, the Titans will likely keep blocker Phillip Supernaw as the third tight end. Smith’s snap count therefore could be quite high early on if Mularkey evolves to featuring two pass catchers in his beloved two tight end sets.

I am interested to see how Mularkey uses the third rounder in training camp. I personally prefer a two tight end set where both guys are threats in the passing game. Smith will need to develop some blocking skills, but I believe the TE2 spot is his to lose. Don’t sleep on this rookie.

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