Tackle is without a doubt a position of strength for the Tennessee Titans.
Unlike the Albert Haynesworth contract situation, long term deals were struck with bookend tackles Michael Roos and David Stewart, enabling both players to be Titans for the foreseeable future.
A second round pick in 2005 out of tiny Eastern Washington, Roos is currently working on a 48 consecutive start streak. As good of a run blocker as he is at pass blocking, I expect Roos to continue his development into one of the leagues best LTs.
David Stewart is exactly what you look for in a right tackle: he is a grinder with a mean streak. His powerful blocking will continue to pave the way for a Titans offense that is heavily reliant on the running game.
Daniel Loper is listed as a tackle, but is in the group of players who are fighting for the starting guard position that is up for grabs as a result of Benji Olsons retirement. Loper is very athletic and looks to be the main backup if God forbid, Roos or Stewart goes down.
Mike Otto, who was on the practice squad for the entire 2007 season, will try to unseat Loper as the primary backup at tackle. According to Jeff Fisher, Otto has done a great job during the offseason and is expected to make more of a contribution in 2008.
Rounding out the herd at tackle is rookie undrafted free agent Brock Pasteur. Listed as the seventh strongest player in college football by ESPN, Pasteurs strength is run-blocking. A long shot to make the active roster, maybe Brock will show enough to earn a spot on the Titans practice squad next season.
Barring injury, the Titans appear to be well-set at offensive tackle in 2008.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!