Grading the Titans 2023 Draft Class after eight games
The Titans are 3-5 through eight games, as many believed the club would be at least 500 by the midseason mark. Despite their losing record, Tennessee's 2023 draft class has been exceptional through eight games. Let's look at each pick that Ran Carthon made in April and give it a midseason grade!!
Peter Skoronski: B+
Pete has been in and out of the lineup this season, but when he plays, he's been a difference-maker for the Titans' Offense. Skoronski has played 315 snaps this season and allowed just one sack while not committing a penalty. The former Northwestern standout has provided adequate protection for the Tennessee QBs while also mauling defenders in the run game. If Skoronski can stay healthy, he'll be the cornerstone of the Titans' O-Line moving forward...
Will Levis: A
This one needs no explanation, as Levis has rejuvenated this fanbase in just two games. The former Wildcats' poise and confidence are off the charts, and his pocket presence has been shockingly clean. Calling Levis the "future of the franchise" after two starts may be a bit of an overreaction, but I don't care. Will Levis is the future of the Titans, and picking him in the second round is the finest move Ran Carthon has made so far as Titans' GM...
Tyjae Spears: A-
Many were skeptical of this pick when it happened, as the Titans still had a significant wide receiver issue. Spears medicals freaked many teams out at the draft, as reports came out that the former Tulane standout didn't have an ACL in one of his knees. Despite this, Tyjae has exceeded expectations in his rookie year and looks to be the perfect complement to Derrick Henry. Spears is averaging 5.5 yards per attempt this season and has been highly efficient with his touches. Though his touches are limited due to King Henry still being on the roster, Spears is showing that the Titans may have found another premier running back in the mid-rounds of the draft...
Josh Whyle: C-
Whyle has yet to see much of an opportunity this season, as Chig Okonkwo and Trevon Wesco see the majority of work at TE. Whyle has amassed four catches for 44 yards and one TD on the year. He could be an impact player down the road, but for now, he's stuck as the third TE on a losing football team...
Jaelyn Duncan: N/A, for now
Duncan has played two snaps all season, but the former Maryland standout will see more action relatively soon as Nicholas Petit-Frere misses more time with a shoulder injury. Until then, it's impossible to grade this pick...
Colton Dowell: C+
Dowell has played 16 offensive snaps on the season and will likely never carve out a significant role in the Titans' Offense. His upside and value on special teams is something Tennessee can work with, but only time will tell. Seventh-round picks usually never make the roster, so Dowell will get a decent grade just because of that...
The Titans have struggled with drafting since 2019, as most of their draft picks in 2020, 2021, and 2022 aren't even on the team anymore. Though it is still way too early to judge, Ran Carthon's 2023 class looks to be the best draft class Tennessee has had since 2019. Let's hope these guys can stay healthy and contribute to the team now and in the future!
IMAGES FROM TEAM WEBSITE
