Tennessee Titans GM Ran Carthon has been consistent in his stance when it comes to the offensive linemen in the upcoming NFL draft class.
Carthon believes there is good depth at offensive tackle in this year's class. It's something he has talked about frequently and made known to the media.
He did so again during Tuesday's press conference when asked about offensive tackles that are still available in free agency. But what does that mean for Tennessee's strategy in the 2024 NFL Draft?
"No, there are still good players. Players that have played a ton of snaps in this league. Not to get too far ahead, but this tackle draft class is pretty deep," said Carthon when asked about the offensive tackles still on the free agent market. "So we're going to, like we always do, we're going to find the best option for us and hopefully we make the right decision."
It's interesting that the Titans, in an offseason where they have spent more money than any other NFL team, have not addressed offensive tackle. It was a huge weakness for Tennessee in 2023. Andre Dillard was a major disappointment, Nicholas Petit-Frere got suspended, and Chris Hubbard got injured. There's a clear need for the Titans to add at least one starting tackle, and yet Carthon keeps referring to the depth in the draft.
I really think this could mean one of three things...and it all depends on how Carthon defines "depth" in a draft class.
1.) The depth is in the early rounds. If the Titans have 8-10 offensive tackles with first round grades, perhaps Tennessee feels good about getting a Day 1 starter with their second-round pick (No. 38). This could mean the Titans pass on a top offensive tackle with the 7th overall pick, fill a different need, and circle back to the offensive line on day two.
2.) The depth is in the middle and later rounds. The draft class is loaded top to bottom. Carthon and the Titans believe they can get multiple impact players, perhaps even starters with draft picks on days two and three. The Titans are holding out in free agency because they plan to fill out the offensive tackle depth chart in the draft by selecting at least two tackles.
3.) The depth Carthon is referring to is at the top of the draft class. If there is more elite talent than usual and Tennessee doesn't believe there is a huge difference between any of the first 5-6 tackles on their big board, they may be more inclined to trade down from the 7th overall pick, acquire additions assets, and select the best available player later in the first.
The Titans are in a really interesting position in the 2024 NFL Draft. They hold a lot of the cards when it comes to the middle of the first round. With four quarterbacks potential going before they're on the clock, the Titans may have their choice from players like Joe Alt, Malik Nabers, or Rome Odunze. What they do from that position will have a drastic impact on every team behind them.
And perhaps the most interesting part of it all is that as things currently stand, I have no idea which way they're leaning. I'm not sure anybody truly does. That's what makes Carthon's latest message - which can be interpreted three different ways - so perfect.
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