So far this offseason, we’ve devoted a ton of time towards the Tennessee Titans addressing perhaps their biggest need: finding a new starting signal-caller.
Whether it’s via free agency/trade, drafting a talented youngster to groom or as GM Mike Reinfeldt suggested, a combination of both a veteran and a rookie, the Titans will certainly bring in some reinforcements at the QB position.
As for the draft, many believe that the Titans could select a QB with their 8th overall pick. However, if the NFL Draft gods allow the likes of DTs Nick Fairley or Marcell Dareus to fall into the team’s lap, then it would make sense for a quarterback to be the focus in the second round.
If he’s available, Arkansas QB Ryan Mallett would be an intriguing value selection for the Tennessee Titans with pick #39.
Yesterday was a huge day in the world of teams searching for a young gunslinger to groom as a future starter at the quarterback position. The controversial Cam Newton, a guy we discussed months ago as a potential Titan, showed off his stuff at Auburn’s pro day. Meanwhile, elsewhere in SEC country, Ryan Mallett continued to showed off his impressive, howitzer-of-an-arm at Arkansas’s pro day.
Despite his ability to throw the rock, there’s certainly some concerns surrounding Mallett. A combination of potential character flaws and stunningly poor athleticism could lead to Mallett exiting the discussion of quarterbacks who could be selected in the first round.
However, if the Titans decide to go in another direction (in particular, the interior defensive line) with their 8th overall pick, the team is likely to address the QB position with their 2nd or 3rd round pick. If Mallet’s available at pick #39, it’s a no brainer to select him, in my opinion.
Mallett has a great combination of size and arm strength and for the icing on the cake, he’s already familiar with the intricacies of running an NFL offense, courtesy of his experience running Bobby Petrino’s pro-style attack at Arkansas. Although he lacks the athleticism of QBs such as Cam Newton, Blaine Gabbert and Jake Locker; signal-callers who are expected to be drafted ahead of him, Mallett is probably the guy who could make the easiest adjustment to playing QB in the NFL.
As for his perceived character issues and lack of maturity, Mallett could learn the ropes of playing in the NFL by sitting behind a veteran QB who the Titans will likely pursue once a new collective bargaining agreement in place.
Despite his warts, Mallett has something that you can’t teach: A dynamic throwing arm and the ability to make all the throws that are necessary to play QB in the NFL. If he’s somehow still around in the second round, the Titans should grab him in a heartbeat.
Agree or disagree with me? Feel free to contribute your thoughts below.
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