Titans fans are eagerly awaiting the team’s next move at EDGE this offseason, but it might not be the blockbuster they’re hoping for, and there’s a straightforward reason why.
Looking at the depth chart, the Titans appear to have just four NFL-ready EDGEs: Jermaine Johnson, Femi Oladejo, Jacob Martin, and Jaylen Harrell. Outside of Johnson, the rest might not seem poised for a major defensive impact, though the coaches have been highlighting Oladejo this offseason.
This situation suggests that EDGE could be the Titans' choice at No. 4 overall, unless they decide to draft Jeremiyah Love with their first-round pick. However, savvy fans have noticed an overlooked name in the EDGE conversation.
John Franklin-Myers, based on his past usage, is expected to play as an EDGE on early downs and shift inside on passing downs. This was speculative until Titans head coach Robert Saleh confirmed it during the NFL owners' meetings.
Saleh stated, "John eliminates the run game on his side of the ball. We will put him on the edge outside.
If he is on the solid side of the tight end, in our mind that is going to end any run game to his side. On pass downs, if you look at the last five years or so he is one of the top interior pass rushers in all of football and has been for a while... his inside-out versatility on first and second down, and third down, adds tremendous value."
With this confirmation, it’s clear the Titans plan to utilize Franklin-Myers as an EDGE on early downs, then unleash him as a pass rusher on third down. This strategy not only reduces the urgency to draft an EDGE but also opens the possibility for the team to explore other options with their fourth pick. Whether they choose Love, another position, or even trade down to gather more draft picks, the Titans have some intriguing paths to consider.