In creating our Tennessee Titans 2016 NFL preview, we feel as if the Tennessee Titans are on their way up. Then again with just five wins in the past two seasons, there seems to be only one way to go. Mike Mularkey, who coached the team to two of their three wins in 2015, is back as head coach. Defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau is said to be a miracle worker and new GM Jon Robinson proved to be aggressive in the draft.
Titans Offense: B
Here’s the skinny, QB Marcus Mariota (2,818 YD, 19 TD, 10 INT) was impressive in 2015 despite having a nominal receiving corps and a weak O-line. The team has upgraded their offense, signing premium RB DeMarco Murray to anchor the ground game. Murray, a free agent from the Eagles, offers solid rushing chops. Heisman winner Derrick Henry (Alabama) will also help upgrade the running game. Delanie Walker (1,088 YD, 11.6 AVG, 11 TD) returns as the top receiver. Free agent WR Rishard Matthews and rookie wide out Tajae Sharpe both bring reliable hands and good route running skills. The O-line has been upgraded via the draft with first round choices.
Titans Defense: B-
In 2015, the defense was ranked 27th in points allowed at 26.4 PPG. They were -14 in turnover differential (T- 30th). Still, there were some highlights. Their D, which was ranked 7th in defending the pass, includes quality CB Jason McCourty who only played four games last season due to a groin injury. The defensive line includes Pro Bowl DT Jurrell Casey and reliable NT Al Woods. If LBs Derrick Morgan and Brian Orakpo are healthy this season the Titan defense will be more effective.
Titans Special Teams: C+
The punt-return game was rated 19th, while Tennessee’s kick return game ranked a bit better, tied at 13th. Punter Brett Kern, who had 88 chances, was on target. Kicker Ryan Succop (29/31 XP, 14/16 FG) was accurate but needs more chances.
Titans Coaching and Management: B
GM Jon Robinson did a fine job in snaring some top O-line performers in the 2016 draft. Robinson is an active GM who loves the talent hunt. Mularkey, who did not have much success with Jacksonville or Buffalo, needs to come through. He does seem to have the players on-hand to do so.
Last Word: Tennessee Titans 2016 NFL Preview
Our final word for the Tennessee Titans 2016 NFL preview is that this team is on the upswing. There’s more depth, skill, and talent on the offensive line and some added power at running back. The Titans may not have a winning record in 2016, but they should get more wins than they have in the past two seasons.
For our overview of the AFC and to link to other AFC teams, please click here.
Tennessee Titans 2016 NFL Preview Pick: 6-10, 4th AFC South
