AFC South: A.J. Brown, WR, Tennessee Titans
In the AFC South, Tennessee Titans wideout A.J. Brown is the only legit candidate to win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He’s the best offensive player to get drafted in that division. At Ole Miss, it was Brown who dominated for the Rebels offense, not D.K. Metcalf. What’s interesting is the marriage Brown could have with newly named offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith.
Smith takes over for now Packers head coach, Matt LaFleur. He’ll likely keep some of LaFleur’s philosophies like wide receiver screens. This could give Brown a chance to make plays in space. Furthermore, an intriguing aspect to Brown’s game wasn’t seen too often in college: the speed he showed in athletic testing leading up to the draft.
Play action played a large part in the Titans offense and that will likely continue under the direction of Smith. If they opt to line Brown up outside, he could surprise defenses. Ultimately, Brown has a skill set similar to players like Dez Bryant with his best work coming as an in-breaking receiver. Moreover, he has the ability to work well out of the slot.
Corey Davis and Brown will make for a similar dynamic to the one he had with Metcalf at Ole Miss. The Titans could opt to use Brown in his natural position at the slot early on. Playing him inside will mask his weaknesses and give him the best chance to make plays. No matter where he lines up, he’ll get opportunities to produce catching balls from Marcus Mariota.