Best NFL UDFAs in 2023:

QB:

  1. Tanner Morgan (Steelers)
  2. Tyson Bagnet (Bears)

RB:

  1. Sean Tucker (Buccaneers)
  2. Keaton Mitchell (Ravens)
  3. Mohamed Ibrahim (Lions)

WR:

  1. Bryce Ford Wheaton (Giants)
  2. Jalen Moreno-Cropper (Dallas)
  3. Jason Brownlee (Jets)
  4. Malik Knowles (Vikings)
  5. Michael Jefferson

TE:

  1. Joel Wilson (Saints)
  2. Noah Gindorff (Seattle)
  3. Blake Whiteheart (Cardinals)
  4. Travis Vokolek (Ravens)

OT:

  1. Jaxson Kirkland (Bengals)
  2. John Ojukwu (Titans)
  3. Earl Bostick Jr. (Dallas)
  4. T.J. Bass (Dallas)
  5. Connor Galvin (Lions)

IOL:

  1. Emil Ekiyor Jr. (Colts)
  2. McClendon Curtis (Bears)
  3. Richard Gouraige (Bills)
  4. Alan Ali (Vikings)

EDGE/DE:

  1. Andre Carter (Vikings)
  2. Ali Gaye (Texans)
  3. Lonnie Phelps (Browns)
  4. Habakkuk Baldonado (Giants)

DT:

  1. Moro Ojomo (Eagles)
  2. Jerrod Clark (Chargers)
  3. Jalen Redmond (Panthers)
  4. Jonah Tavai (Seattle)
  5. DJ Dale (Bills)

LB:

  1. Ivan Pace (Vikings)
  2. Cam Jones (Chiefs)
  3. Jeremy Banks (Bucs)
  4. Isaiah Moore (Chiefs)
  5. Anfernee Orji (Saints)

OLB/EDGE:

  1. Thomas Incoom (Denver)
  2. Isaiah Land (Dallas)
  3. Brenton Cox Jr. (Packers)
  4. Tyrus Wheat (Dallas)

CB:

  1. Eli Ricks (Eagles)
  2. Rejzohn Wright (Panthers)
  3. Cameron Brown (Giants)
  4. Starling Thomas (Lions)
  5. Mekhi Garner (Eagles)
  6. Lance Boykin (Seattle)

S:

  1. Ronnie Hickman (Browns)
  2. Brandon Joseph (Lions)
  3. Quindell Johnson (Rams)
  4. Trey Dean III (Jets)
  5. Rashad Torrence (Rams)

Short Snapshots: The Will Levis Dilemma

As the NFL Draft progresses, it is not uncommon for unexpected things to happen. As of just one day ago, Will Levis was thought to be a potential Top 5 pick as he had become the Vegas betting favorite to go second overall. However, as the first round of the draft passed, Levis shockingly remained undrafted.

For many teams, trading up to draft a quarterback in the second round can be a tricky decision, but for the Tennessee Titans, it might be the perfect opportunity to solve their quarterback dilemma for the upcoming season and perhaps beyond.

Although some fans and may have been hesitant to draft Levis as a top pick in the draft, he still has the potential to develop into a very good game managing Quarterback, making him an excellent prospect for a second-round pick. If Levis is still available when the Titans are on the clock, or if it takes trading up in the second round to draft him, it might be wise to take a chance on him.

Looking ahead to the next season, it is uncertain what the Titans’ quarterback situation will look like. Ryan Tannehill will be 35 years old, and his time in Tennessee might be coming to an end. If Levis is drafted this season, he will have a year to learn from Tannehill and prepare himself for the starting role in the future, which would be very valuable for a player like Levis. He has proven himself to be a talented quarterback during his time at Kentucky, and being drafted in the second round while getting a chance to sit behind a veteran like Tannehill would be an excellent opportunity for him to continue his growth as a player. With no immediate pressure to perform as a starter, Levis could focus on learning and developing his skills, ultimately making him a more prepared Quarterback and a valuable asset for the Titans.

Moreover, and perhaps most important, drafting Levis would solve the Titans’ quarterback issues for next season. By having a young and talented quarterback like Levis on his rookie contract, the Titans could allocate their resources to other areas of need on the team.

The decision to draft Will Levis in the second round might be the best move for the Tennessee Titans. By drafting him, the Titans could solve their quarterback issues for the upcoming season while also securing a valuable asset for the future. Although Levis was not the top pick many expected him to be, he still has solid upside as a second-round pick, making him a worthy investment for any team looking for a quarterback of the future.

Short Snapshots: Will Joakim Kemell have a spot on the Nashville Predators Roster next Season?

Joakim Kemell, the young 18-year-old Finnish winger, has been making waves in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Milwaukee Admirals this season. With a keen eye for space and a deadly shot, Kemell has been one of the AHL’s most exciting young players to end the regular season, ranking ninth in the league in win-share percentage for players 21 years old or younger (as of April 23rd, 2023). But with the NHL offseason looming, some Preds fans are asking: will Kemell make the jump to the Predators roster this coming season, or will he continue his development in the AHL? Let’s dive into this question a bit. There is no denying that Kemell’s skill set is impressive. He has a knack for finding open space and positioning himself for scoring opportunities, and his shooting ability is top-notch. He’s not afraid to get creative with the puck and take on defenders, making him an entertaining player to watch. Despite being 5’11”, Kemell plays with a lot of jump, physicality, and more grit than most people give him credit for. Even though he’s been having impressive AHL performances, there are still concerns about Kemell’s readiness for the NHL. The Nashville Predators have a history of being patient with young prospects in the organization, giving them time to develop in the AHL for long periods of time. Kemell is still adjusting to North American ice after playing in Finland his entire career, and depending on how he performs in the Calder playoffs this year and the regular season next year, he may need another season in the AHL before jumping to the NHL to fully adjust and refine his skills on an American rink. 

The Predators will have a lot of players vying for a spot on the wing next season. Veterans like Mark Jankowski, Michael McCarron, Cole Smith, and Keifer Sherwood will all be fighting for a spot, and that’s not even including young players such as Egor Afanasyev, Luke Evangelista, and Phil Tomasino. All these players will be in the mix for the last few wing spots on the roster, and a few very talented players arent going to make the cut. Given Nashville’s tendency to let young players develop in the AHL, it’s unlikely that Kemell will get the nod over these more experienced players. That being said, Kemell’s performance in the AHL this season has been encouraging, and he has proved that he could adapt to North American ice and excel in a smaller rink. His ability to score goals and make plays will undoubtedly catch the attention of Nashville’s coaching staff in training camp and preseason. While it’s unlikely he’ll make the roster next season, the future looks bright for this young Finnish star.  

Top Targets for the Tennessee Titans: Best Available Players after Day One of Free Agency

As the dust settles on the first day of free agency, The Tennessee Titans made a single, somewhat modest move to sign Andre Dillard. This move could prove to be a good one for the Titans, as Dillard’s versatility and upside make him a valuable addition to the roster. Though he’s primarily played at left tackle, Dillard’s short but overall solid stint in the NFL has seen him take on every position along the offensive line, with the exception of center. While there were rumors that he was brought in to replace Nate Davis at right guard, it’s widely believed that he’ll be anchoring the left tackle spot – at least for the time being.

However, as we delve deeper into the Titans’ current state, it’s clear that they have several areas of need. Titans fans should keep in mind that not all of these needs will be met through free agency, but the team will certainly aim to address some – if not most – of these issues come draft day:

Biggest positions of need:

  • LG
  • RG
  • C (Assuming Brewer is not resigned)
  • WR
  • EDGE/OLB
  • CB
  • MLB

Offensive Guard:

It’s clear that the Titan’s offense very much relies on the success and performance of their offensive line. In recent years, this unit has been a glaring weakness that has held the team back. This offseason presents a prime opportunity for them to invest in this critical area, and doing so could pay dividends in unlocking the full potential of their explosive offense led by the indomitable Derrick Henry.

  1. (Steelers) Isaac Seumalo
  2. Dalton Risner
  3. (Steelers) Nate Herbig
  4. (Cardinals) Will Hernandez
  5. (Lions) Graham Glasgow (Also Center)
  6. Trai Turner
  7. (Seahawks) Evan Brown (Also Center)
  8. (Bengals) Max Scharping
  9. (Cardinals) Elijah Wilkinson
  10. (Jets) Wes Schweitzer (Also Center)
  11. (Bills) David Edwards
  12. (Rams) Coleman Shelton (Also Center)
  13. Billy Price (Also Center)

Wide Receiver:

As the Tennessee Titans gear up for the upcoming NFL season, they boast a subpar receiving corps featuring big-bodied Treylon Burks, reliable slot receiver Kyle Phillips, and backup Nick Westbrook. However, there’s still room for improvement in terms of speed and agility. Head coach Mike Vrabel has previously expressed his desire for a faster team, and it’s clear that the Titans need to bolster their receiving corps with a taller, faster receiver who can complement Burks on the outside. Im not sure the Titans can afford to break the bank at the receiver position so these options will be within the spending range the team can afford:

  1. (Patriots) JuJu Smith-Schuster
  2. (Dolphins) Chosen Anderson
  3. (Panthers) DJ Chark
  4. (Jets) Mecole Hardman
  5. (Giants) Darius Slayton
  6. (Giants) Parris Campbell
  7. Sammy Watkins
  8. (Bills) Trent Sherfield
  9. (Bears) Dante Pettis
  10. Breshad Perriman

EDGE/OLB:

As the Tennessee Titans continue to build their roster for the upcoming season, it’s unlikely that they’ll break the bank on an edge rusher or an outside linebacker. Instead, they’re looking for a solid rotational piece to complement their existing defensive lineup. This means that they’re likely to be in the market for a pass rusher with a salary range of around 3 to 6 million dollars, rather than a full-on starter. There are so many players that could fill this need I’m not sure I could list out all of them. There are dozens of edge rushers and outside linebackers that are solid rotational pieces that the Titans could bring in and it would fill the need completely fine.

Cornerback:

As the Tennessee Titans look to strengthen their cornerback lineup, they face a particular challenge: a roster that is dominated by smaller players. While they have solid depth in the slot and nickel positions, they need a cornerback who can hold their own on the outside and match up well against bigger, physical receivers.

To fill this need, the Titans will be on the lookout for a faster, taller cornerback who can complement Kristian Fulton and add a new dimension to their defensive game. It’s no easy task, as finding a player who can seamlessly integrate into their existing system and hold their own against the league’s best receivers is no mean feat. Here are a few guys who could fill that role:

  1. Ronald Darby
  2. (Saints) Bradley Roby
  3. (Lions) Emmanuel Moseley
  4. (Titans) Sean Murphy-Bunting
  5. (Vikings) Byron Murphy
  6. Eli Apple
  7. Shaquill Griffin
  8. (Vikings) Joejuan Williams
  9. Anthony Averett

Middle Linebacker:

The Tennessee Titans find themselves in an intriguing position as they look to rebuild their middle linebacking corps. With most of their starters departing over the past few seasons, the Titans are in the midst of a transition period, and the search for new talent is on.

The question is, will they look to the draft, or explore the possibilities of free agency? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Titans need to find linebackers who fit their play style and bring the right mix of skills and attitude to the field.

  1. Jayon Brown
  2. Kwon Alexander
  3. (Texans) Cory Littleton
  4. (Browns) Sione Takitaki
  5. (Chiefs) Drue Tranquill
  6. (Cowboys) Leighton Vander Esch
  7. (Steelers) Cole Holcomb
  8. Deion Jones
  9. (Browns) Anthony Walker
  10. (Seahawks) Devin Bush Jr.
  11. (Titans) Ben Niemann
  12. Nick Kwiatkoski

As we eagerly await the conclusion of free agency, it’s worth noting that the Tennessee Titans most likely have several potential targets beyond the players I’ve personally listed here. While my meticulous statistical analysis has identified the top performers at each position (in the Titan’s price range), the Titans’ front office undoubtedly has a broader perspective. However, rest assured that I will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the team’s free agency moves once the dust has settled. Stay tuned!

Who is Reid Schaefer? Introducing the Nashville Predators new Young Prospect:

The Nashville Predators have recently acquired a promising left-winger prospect in Reid Schaefer, who was drafted 32nd overall in the 2022 NHL draft. Schaefer is an impressive 6’3″ and weighs 215 lb, fitting the Predators’ mold of big wingers, and at just 19 years old, he has a lot of time to develop and improve his game.

Schaefer has already proven himself to be a formidable player in the Western Hockey League (WHL) this season, with 23 goals and 24 assists in 44 games, earning a plus-minus rating of plus 21; he is expected to become a 30-goal scorer with 29 assists this season, demonstrating his ability to both score and dish the puck to his teammates.

Schaefer was one of the fastest risers in the rankings leading up to the draft, jumping an impressive 54 spots from 85th to 31st, according to NHL Central Scouting. As a draft prospect, Schaefer was ranked by Elite Prospects at #102, FCHockey at #55, TSN/Craig Button at #20, McKeen’s Hockey at #64, TSN/McKenzie at #37, and NHL Central Scouting at #31.

Schaefer’s draft profile highlights his potential as “the next good power forward in the league” but acknowledges that he has room to grow and develop. As a raw player, his impact will depend on the team he lands with and his development, but his size, physicality, and scoring touch make him an exciting prospect to keep an eye on.

Experts have described Schaefer as a power forward who plays a tough, physical game, but can also score and make plays when he needs to. He is known for protecting the puck well, being strong along the boards and in front of the net, and possessing sharp offensive capabilities for a big forward. Schaefer’s NHL appeal lies in his excellent puck skills, scoring touch, and ability to create offense around the net. While he may currently be seen as a bottom-six forward with upside, he has the potential to become a valuable player in special teams situations as well as being a regular top-six forward.

Overall, the Nashville Predators have acquired an impressive young prospect who has demonstrated his ability to be a physical and effective player on the ice. With time and development, he has the potential to become an important part of the team and make a significant impact in the league.

Top Coaching Candidates To Replace John Hynes as the Nashville Predators Coach: (Outside the Organization)

As we near the end of the current season, the coaching carousel is already in full swing, and many names are being thrown into the mix to potentially replace John Hines. After much consideration and analysis, I’ve compiled a list of my top coaching candidates, featuring a diverse range of individuals who bring unique skills and experiences. Some candidates are seasoned veterans looking for a fresh start, while others are up-and-comers eager to establish themselves as top-tier coaches in the NHL. Regardless of their background, these coaches have all demonstrated an ability to lead and inspire, making them worthy contenders.

Veterans:

Patrick Roy (57 years old)

  • Points Percentage: 62.6%
  • Playoff Win-Loss Percentage: 42.8%
  • Stanley Cup Appearances: 0
  • Made Playoffs in 33% of years coached
  • Coached 100-point teams 33% of the time
  • Jack Adams Award Winner (2013-14)

In the realm of the NHL, few names carry as much weight and respect as Patrick Roy. With a storied playing career and a wealth of coaching accolades, Roy embodies the essence of a true leader behind the bench. Fondly referred to as “Saint Patrick,” his remarkable achievements and unique coaching style make him an ideal fit for the Nashville Predators.
Roy’s playing days were split between two renowned franchises: the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche. Over his illustrious 19-year career, he captured the hearts of fans and the attention of the hockey world. The iconic goaltender secured an impressive four Stanley Cups, with two triumphs for each team he represented.
Acknowledged as the greatest goaltender in NHL history, Roy’s legacy extends beyond his remarkable on-ice performances. The influential netminder was deservedly inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on November 13, 2006, forever solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.
However, it is Roy’s coaching prowess that truly sets him apart. In the 2013–14 season, he steered the Colorado Avalanche to a staggering 112-point season, capturing the Central Division title. The team’s remarkable accomplishments included tying a franchise record with 52 wins, boasting the league’s best road record, and an impressive undefeated streak when leading after two periods. Roy was bestowed with the Jack Adams Award for his invaluable contributions, recognized as the NHL’s top coach. This accolade marked his ability to inspire greatness in his players and lead them to unprecedented success.
Beyond his NHL achievements, Roy’s coaching prowess extends to his tenure in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). For an impressive 13 years, from 2005 to 2013 and then again from 2018 to 2023, he commanded the helm of the Quebec Remparts.
Roy’s teams made the playoffs every season he coached, highlighting his consistency and ability to develop winning cultures. Additionally, he steered his squad to first-place finishes in the division for an impressive six out of the 13 seasons—an undeniable testament to his coaching acumen and ability to foster a winning environment.
Perhaps one of Roy’s greatest assets lies in his reputation as a players’ coach. Known for his unwavering support and defense of his players, he strikes a delicate balance between advocating for his team while also holding them accountable. Although occasionally drawing attention, his outspokenness and aggression showcase his commitment to honesty and integrity, traits that have earned him respect throughout the league.
As Nathan MacKinnon, one of Roy’s former players, revealed, “I didn’t realize how smart he’d be. He understands the game so well… It’s only my second season, but I’m sure he’s one of the most progressive coaches in the league.” MacKinnon’s words illuminate Roy’s ability to think strategically and adapt to the evolving nature of the sport. This progressive mindset, coupled with his genuine passion and competitive drive, make him an ideal mentor for the Nashville Predators’ young squad.
In a league where communication and connection with players are paramount, Roy’s relatability shines through. He possesses the unique ability to make his players feel appreciated, heard, and valued, fostering a positive and supportive environment. This aspect becomes even more crucial when working with a young team like the Predators, where guidance and mentorship are vital for player development.
Patrick Roy’s illustrious playing career, combined with his remarkable coaching accomplishments, make him an ideal fit for the Nashville Predators. His unique coaching style, ability to inspire greatness, and dedication to player development set him apart as a top-tier coach in the NHL. With his expertise, experience, and winning mindset he brings, Roy would undoubtedly lead the Predators to new levels of success and establish a culture of excellence within the organization.

Alain Vigneault (61 years old)

  • Points Percentage: 58.5%
  • Playoff Win-Loss Percentage: 50.3%
  • Stanley Cup Appearances: 2 (0-2)
  • Made Playoffs in 63% of years coached
  • Coached 100-point teams 42% of the time
  • Jack Adams Award Winner (2006-7)

Thanks to his illustrious track record, Alain Vigneault is a prime contender for the head coach position at the Nashville Predators. Over the years, he has managed to have success with several teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, New York Rangers, and Philadelphia Flyers. In 2007, he clinched the prestigious Jack Adams Award, which recognizes the NHL’s top coach of the year. During his time in Vancouver, he became the Canucks all-time winningest coach with 313 wins, winning back-to-back Presidents’ Trophies and appearing in one Stanley Cup Final.

His innovative approach to the game sets Vigneault apart from other coaches. He employs modern tactics that allow his star players to shine, experimenting with his roster to maximize their potential. Vigneault is adept at reading the opposition, strategically deploying his players to exploit their weak points and gain a competitive edge. His resource management skills are unparalleled, making him one of the finest coaches in the world. Moreover, Vigneault has a proven track record in player development, taking Vancouver’s prospects and young talent to the next level.

If securing a coach with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the NHL is of paramount importance to the Nashville Predators, Alain Vigneault undoubtedly ticks all those boxes.

Claude Julien (62 years old)

  • Points Percentage: 58.7%
  • Playoff Win-Loss Percentage: 54.4%
  • Stanley Cup Appearances: 2 (1-1)
  • Made Playoffs in 52.6% of years coached
  • Coached 100-point teams 26.3% of the time
  • Jack Adams Award Winner (2008-9)

Claude Julien’s impressive coaching career speaks volumes, highlighted by his stellar points percentage of 58.7% and a Stanley Cup championship win with the Boston Bruins in 2011. Throughout his illustrious career, he has led his teams to the playoffs an impressive ten times, enjoying deep runs in several appearances. One of Julien’s notable strengths is his ability to create a solid defensive foundation through sound structures and effective systems. He strongly emphasizes defense, but not at the expense of offense, as evidenced by his Bruins team being one of the better possession teams in the NHL after the 2012 lockout. With a talented forward corps and an elite goaltender anchoring the defense, Julien’s strategic approach could be an ideal fit for the Nashville Predators. With his guidance, the Predators’ young core could develop into a formidable team capable of challenging for the Stanley Cup in the coming years.

Dan Bylsma (52 years old)

  • Points Percentage: 61.5%
  • Playoff Win-Loss Percentage: 55.1%
  • Stanley Cup Appearances: 1 (1-0)
  • Made Playoffs in 75% of years coached
  • Coached 100-point teams 50% of the time
  • Jack Adams Award Winner (2010-11)

Dan Bylsma could be the right coach to lead the Nashville Predators to glory. His impressive track record speaks volumes; with a points percentage of 61.5% and a playoff win-loss percentage of 55.1%, Bylsma has the experience and winning mentality the Predators need. He led the Penguins to the Stanley Cup championship in 2009 and reached the playoffs in 75% of the years he coached while boasting a 50% success rate with 100-point teams. Bylsma’s coaching philosophy is rooted in a north-south style of play, with an emphasis on quick, long stretch passes that keep opponents off balance. His system can be complex, but it has proven to be effective, as evidenced by his Jack Adams Award for the league’s most outstanding coach in 2010-2011. Bylsma’s offbeat approach to motivating his players, such as rewarding the last player to score in a shootout practice with the responsibility of growing a mustache, could be what the Predators need to lighten the mood in the locker room. All things considered, Dan Bylsma’s winning record and innovative coaching style make him a prime candidate for the Nashville Predators’ head coaching position.

Bruce Boudreau (68 years old)

  • Points Percentage: 62.6%
  • Playoff Win-Loss Percentage: 47.8%
  • Stanley Cup Appearances: 0 (0-0)
  • Made Playoffs in 62.5% of years coached
  • Coached 100-point teams 50% of the time
  • Jack Adams Award Winner (2007-8)

Former Vancouver Canucks head coach Bruce Boudreau presents a promising candidate for the Nashville Predators’ head coaching position. With an impressive coaching record that includes a Jack Adams Award win and experience with four different NHL teams, Boudreau has demonstrated his ability to lead teams to success in the regular season. Notably, he ranks second in NHL history for coaches with at least 900 games coached in terms of winning percentage. He has turned around struggling teams midseason, such as when he took over the Washington Capitals in 2007 and led them to their first playoff appearance in five years.

Boudreau’s coaching style centers around a fast-paced, “run and gun” approach to offense that has yielded success for players such as Alexander Ovechkin and Nicklas Bäckström during his time with the Capitals. Additionally, Boudreau has a track record of developing players and helping them achieve career years, such as Ryan Getzlaf, Nick Bonino, and Mikael Granlund. His brief time with the Vancouver Canucks also demonstrated his ability to make an impact with a team in a short period.

Overall, Boudreau’s extensive experience, impressive coaching accolades, and player development skills make him a strong contender for the Nashville Predators’ head coaching position.

Bob Hartley (62 years old)

  • Points Percentage: 55.4%
  • Playoff Win-Loss Percentage: 56.8%
  • Stanley Cup Appearances: 1 (1-0)
  • Made Playoffs in 50% of years coached
  • Coached 100-point teams 16.6% of the time
  • Jack Adams Award Winner (2014-15)

Bob Hartley possesses a wealth of experience that could make him a top-notch head coach for the Nashville Predators. With a notable career that boasts a Stanley Cup victory with the Colorado Avalanche in 2001, the Jack Adams Award in 2014-15, and wins of the Calder Cup and NLA championship, Hartley’s credentials are impressive, to say the least. Notably, Hartley’s coaching philosophy revolves around defense-first tactics, which would align perfectly with the Predators’ historical style of play. Moreover, Hartley is recognized for his strict discipline, willing to sit even his most talented players if tardiness or lack of effort becomes an issue. His commitment to success is also evidenced by his unyielding work ethic and exceptional motivational skills. By joining the Nashville Predators’, Hartley could be the key that unlocks their potential and elevates the team to greater heights.

Young Coaches:

If the Nashville Predators are looking for a fresh and promising option for their head coach, grooming a talented assistant coach could be a great avenue to explore. A young and ambitious coach who has been affiliated with successful NHL teams and has firsthand experience with winning cultures, strategies, and teams could be the perfect candidate for the job.

With the recent appointment of General Manager Barry Trotz, he could potentially take the reins and mentor this budding coach throughout the entirety of the rebuild process. This approach would allow for a smooth transition and continuity in the team’s development.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that all the coaches listed possess substantial NHL experience, including time spent as players. This experience could prove valuable as they strive to lead the Nashville Predators toward a bright and successful future.

Chris Kelly (42 years old) – Assistant coach for the Boston Bruins

  • NHL Games Played: 845
  • NHL Point Shares: 24.1
  • NHL Plus Minus: +40

Throughout his playing career, Kelly was widely renowned for his superb two-way defensive style, which earned him an impressive four nominations for the coveted Selke Trophy. On three separate occasions, Kelly secured a place in the top 30 of the voting category, a testament to his defensive prowess and immense value to his teams. Moreover, as a member of the Boston Bruins, Kelly played a pivotal role in helping his team clinch the Stanley Cup in 2011, a career highlight that endowed him with a wealth of experience on a championship-winning team.

Following his retirement from playing in 2018, Kelly successfully transitioned to coaching, initially joining the Ottawa Senators as a development coach before earning a well-deserved promotion to the Boston Bruins in 2021. As a member of one of the NHL’s most successful teams, Kelly had the unique opportunity to observe first-hand the inner workings of a high-performing locker room and the strategies that drive such success. Indeed, Kelly’s commitment to excellence and winning mindset as a player and a coach make him a potentially valuable addition to the Nashville Predators’ coaching staff, offering the team a unique perspective and a wealth of experience.

Tim Gleason (40 years old) – Assistant coach to the Carolina Hurricanes

  • NHL Games Played: 727
  • NHL Point Shares: 26.7
  • NHL Plus Minus: -37

Tim Gleason, a former first-round pick from Ottawa and current assistant coach for the Carolina Hurricanes, represents a compelling prospect for a head coaching position. Known for his tough and gritty style of play during his playing days, Gleason was appointed assistant coach to the Carolina Hurricanes on September 2nd, 2021, and has made an immediate impact.

As a coaching staff member for one of the NHL’s most high-scoring and electrifying teams, Gleason has had the opportunity to observe and contribute to the team’s significant success over the past few seasons. His role has been integral in developing the team’s strategies, tactics, and style of play, and his influence has been apparent on the ice.

Manny Malhotra (42 years old) – Assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs

  • NHL Games Played: 991
  • NHL Point Shares: 20.8
  • NHL Plus Minus: -26

Manny Malhotra’s reputation as a well-rounded player and sportsman precedes him, having garnered multiple Byng and Selke Trophy votes throughout his playing career. His accolades include winning the OHL Scholastic Player of the Year award in ’98, and the Memorial Cup’s Most Sportsmanlike Player award the same year. Notably, Malhotra played alongside the legendary Wayne Gretzky, making him the last active player to do so.

As a two-way forward, Malhotra was a faceoff specialist, winning over 56% of faceoffs taken during his NHL career. Since retiring, Malhotra has transitioned to coaching, joining the Vancouver Canucks as an assistant coach in 2017 and later moving to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2020. He has been privy to the inner workings of successful NHL teams, observing their strategies and tactics firsthand.

With years of coaching experience behind him and an intimate understanding of what it takes to succeed in the NHL, Malhotra should be a top contender for a head coaching position.

Tuomo Ruutu (40 years old) – Assistant coach with the Florida Panthers

  • NHL Games Played: 735
  • NHL Point Shares: 31.9
  • NHL Plus Minus: -70

Tuomo Ruutu was a force to be reckoned with during his time in the NHL. The 9th overall pick in the 2001 draft, Ruutu made an immediate impact in his rookie season, finishing 6th in Calder Trophy voting. His hard-nosed playstyle made him a fan favorite, as he accumulated over 1500 career hits and wasn’t afraid to mix it up with opponents.

After his playing days, Ruutu transitioned to coaching and was recently hired as an assistant coach with the Florida Panthers in June 2021. As one of the top teams in the NHL, the Panthers have been a great learning environment for Ruutu, who has been able to contribute to their success. Additionally, his experience in player development as Assistant Director of Player Development with the New York Rangers adds another valuable area of expertise to his coaching abilities.

Although he may be less experienced than other candidates, Ruutu’s unique background and skillset make him a fascinating option for a head coaching position. His gritty playing style and understanding of the game could translate well to coaching, and he has already proven to be a valuable asset to the Panthers’ coaching staff.

Reflecting on My Top 5 Day 3 Targets from Last Year’s NFL Draft: How Did They Perform and Where Are They Now?

  • Tariq Woolen

The fact Tariq Woolen fell that far in the draft shocked me. I was a massive fan of his coming out of UTSA and after his NFL combine performance, I was an even bigger fan. It’s not every day you see a 6’4″ cornerback run a 4.26 40-yard dash ( tied for third-best in the Combine history and fastest for a player over six foot). I feel extremely proud of myself for this one, I just knew after watching his film and seeing him display his unworldly athleticism at the combine, he had the potential to be dangerous in the NFL. Woolen took the NFL by storm, in his first season, he was selected to the Pro Bowl as well as being the NFL Interceptions co-leader and made the All-Rookie first team.

  • Calvin Austin III

The 2022 season didn’t go as Calvin or I had hoped. He sustained a major foot injury in training camp at the beginning of the season and wasn’t able to play at all during his entire rookie season. The quick and speedy receiver will have to wait until the 2023 season to show the NFL world how dangerous he can be with the ball in his hands. The Steelers coaches said they saw “a lot of flashes” in camp when he was healthy and said it’s “going to be crazy” when he’s back healthy for them this upcoming offseason.

  • Kingsley Enagbare

For a 5th-round pick, Enagbare outperformed his draft spot and proved the packers got a solid pass rusher deep in the draft. Kingsley played in all 18 of the Packers games this season and made 7 starts. He was able to get 3 sacks on the season along with an impressive 17 QB Hurries. All things considered, Kingsley had a very solid rookie season and he’s just going to keep improving from here on out.

  • Zach Tom

Tom might end up being one of the best offensive linemen from the 2022 NFL Draft when it’s all said and done. After being drafted in the 4th round by the packers Tom was not expected to be a part of their offensive line in his rookie season. That all changed when he was forced to play due to injuries on the packers line in week 7, and after that, he played and started in almost every game until the end of the season. In the almost 500 offensive snaps he played last season, Tom didn’t commit a single penalty and allowed just one sack. He graded out as one of the best pass-protecting rookie linemen despite the fact the packers used him in 4 different positions along their offensive line.

  • Cade Otton

Otton was perhaps one of the most underrated picks from the later rounds of the 2022 draft. He ended up starting 10 games for the Buccaneer’s offense last season, catching 42 passes for nearly 400 yards and two touchdowns. Where Otton really shined was in his blocking ability. He immediately proved himself as one of the best blocking tight ends in football earning a pass-blocking grade of 79.3 from PFF which was the 5th best grade in all the NFL for the tight end position. At only 23 years old, Otton still has time to get himself more involved in the passing game and perhaps round himself into one of the top all-around Tight Ends in football.

Original Article: https://gabefly.com/top-players-left-in-the-2022-nfl-draft-day-3-that-i-would-like-the-titans-to-target/

The Ideal Tennessee Titans in the 2023 Offseason: (Incomplete Article, Still in Progress)

Firings:

✔️ Todd Downing: Simply put, Downing has absolutely been atrocious for this Tennessee Titans offense. The Titans are bottom five in almost every single category on offense outside of pure rushing statistics (due to Derrick Henry). There is no creativity in the offense, once you’ve seen one Titans game you’ve seen all of them, from a play-calling perspective nothing changes from week to week. It’s the same game plan, the same play calls, and the same mediocre results. The Titans need to modernize this offense. They have to bring in someone with a better understanding of modern offenses and is willing to push the pace, utilize play action, and get back to the Titans offense we saw dominate the NFL in 2020.

✔️ Keith Carter: This is long overdue. Whether the Offensive line struggles are Carter’s fault or not, something needs to be done. This offensive line has been a bottom-third line in the NFL statistically speaking for the last three seasons and it just keeps getting worse year after year. Some of the personnel decisions up front have been baffling to say the least over the last few seasons. Such as the continual trust in Dennis Daley who was one of the worst linemen in the NFL statistically and was single-handedly responsible for the killing of multiple Titans offense possessions this season. Simply put, change needs to happen upfront.

Frank Piraino, Brian Bell, Todd Toriscelli, and Matt Gregg: The Titan’s injuries in the last few seasons have almost been legitimately unbelievable. When you take a look at the number of players on IR, the number of games missed by starters, and the number of overall players used due to injury, the Titans have topped those lists by a mile in the last two seasons and it hasn’t even been close. One season with injury after injury is one thing, but two seasons in a row where a team is leading the league in every single category injury-wise, someone needs to be held accountable even if you can’t directly prove it’s on the strength and conditioning coaches or on the athletic training staff. This isnt really an issue that has a provable cause, but you won’t know if there is a solution unless action is taken and some staff in these areas are fired and replaced.

Top Offensive Coordinator Candidates:

Joe Brady (33) – Bills Quarterbacks Coach

Andrew Janocko (34) – Bears Quarterback Coach

Brian Johnson (35) – Eagles Quarterbacks Coach

Alex Tanney (35) – Eagles Assistant Quarterbacks Coach/Offensive Assistant Coach

Bobby Slowik (35) – 49ers Offensive passing game coordinator

Brian Hartline (36) – Ohio State Passing Game Coordinator and Wide Receivers Coach

Sherrone Moore (36) – Michigan Universities Co-Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach

Brian Callahan (38) – Bengals Offensive Coordinator

Tanner Engstrand (40) – Lions Tight ends coach & passing game coordinator

Kevin Patullo (41) – Eagles Passing game coordinator

Dave Canales (41) – Seahawks Quarterbacks Coach

Frank Smith (41) – Dolphins Offensive Coordinator

Wes Welker (41) – Dolphins Wide Receivers Coach

Kliff Kingsbury (43) – Former Cardinals Head Coach

Matt Nagy (44) – Chiefs Senior assistant & quarterbacks coach

Brian Griese (47) – 49ers Quarterbacks Coach

Joel Thomas (48) – Saints Runningbacks Coach

James Urban (49) – Ravens Quarterbacks Coach

Mark Brunell (52) – Lions Quarterbacks Coach

Darrell Bevell (53) – Dolphins Quarterbacks coach & passing game coordinator

Todd Monken (56) – Georgia Bulldogs Offensive Coordinator

Top Offensive Line Coach Candidates:

Harry Hiestand – Notre Dame Offensive Line Coach

Sherrone Moore – Michigan Universities Co-Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach

Russ Grimm – Former Titans Offensive Line Coach

Mike Munchak – Former Titans Offensive Line Coach

Bruce Matthews – Former Titans Offensive Line Coach

Ryan Wendell – Bills Assistant Offensive Line Coach

Corey Matthaei – Chiefs Assistant Offensive Line Coach

James Cregg – 49ers Assistant Offensive Line Coach

Top General Manager Candidates:

Jon Ferrari – Eagles Assistant GM

Alec Halaby – Eagles Assistant GM

JoJo Wooden – Chargers Director of Player Personnel

Mike Borgonzi – Chiefs Assistant GM

Shelton Quarles – Buccaneers Director of Football Operations

Jeff Ireland – Saints Assistant GM

Jim Overdorf – Bills Senior Advisor to GM/Football Operations

Ian Cunningham – Bears Assistant GM

Ran Carthon – 49ers Director of Player Personnel

Adam Peters – 49ers Assistant General Manager

Quarterback Situation:

Not Many Options here:

  • Cut Tannehill, Roll with Malik as the starter, and bring in some competition for a lower salary
  • Keep Tannehill and let Malik develop another season
  • Cut Tannehill and bring in a veteran on a one or two-year deal to fill in as a starter until Malik is ready (This is only if the Coaching staff and new GM think its time for a major change Offensively and they can get a serviceable QB in free agency on a cheap deal. I don’t see this happening.)
  • Cut Tannehill, trade up, and Draft a QB in the upcoming draft if they think Malik isn’t the QB of the future

Malik Willis has proven he has all the tools to be an electric Quarterback in this league, I just don’t think he’s proven he’s developed enough to take over as an NFL starter. Tannehill is serviceable, and with decent pass protection, he’s proven he can even be a top-tier game manager (perhaps top 15 in the NFL). I don’t believe Tannehill is anywhere near the problem. This Offensive Line has been atrocious this season, ranked 32nd in the NFL through week 18 by PFF. Tennessee’s line is the third-most penalized group in the NFL — they have been flagged 36 times as a group and are tied for the lowest average yards before contact figure in the NFL (0.8 yards). They cant pass block or run block. Any criticisms directed toward the Quarterbacks should immediately be shifted and directed toward this atrocious offensive line. The only two linemen for the Titans with a positive grade this season are Ben Jones and Nate Davis.

Options if you go with a QB in free agency to save some money:

(Stats averaged over last four seasons)

  • *Teddy Bridgewater (67.6 Cmp%, 2.0 Int%, 93.8 QBRate)
  • Baker Mayfield (60.7 Cmp%, 2.8 Int%, 84.5 QBRate)
  • *Gardner Minshew II (62.8 Cmp%, 1.6 Int%, 93.1 QBRate)
  • Taylor Heinicke (63.8 Cmp%, 2.9 Int%, 85.7 QBRate)
  • Case Keenum (62.8 Cmp%, 2.3 Int%, 84.1 QBRate)
  • *Jacoby Brissett (62.1 Cmp%, 1.5 Int%, 85.8 QBRate)

The only way cutting Tannehill makes sense is if the front office thinks they can get another serviceable quarterback in free agency on a cheap enough deal to where cutting Tannehill makes sense. Now there aren’t many quarterbacks that are hitting the market that are also serviceable enough to win games and be substantially cheaper than Tannehill (or cheaper enough to make the cap hit worth cutting him). Tom Brady will want substantial money, Geno Smith is likely to go back to Seattle on a big deal, and Jimmy Garoppolo has earned a nice paycheck and is also rumored to want to go back to the 49ers. Those three are by far the top quarterbacks in the free agency market this season. Now when you look at the tier 2 players that could step in you see names like Jacoby Brissett, Andy Dalton, Baker Mayfield, Taylor Heinicke, Baker Mayfield, Teddy Bridgewater, Gardner Minshew, Case Keenum, etc.
When breaking it down by statistics, there are only four or five quarterbacks in that second-tier that put up numbers (in the last four years) that could be considered starting quality. Those names are Teddy Bridgewater, Gardner Minshew, Taylor Heinicke, Case Keenum, Baker Mayfield, and Jacoby Brissett. Now, where this argument for bringing in a new quarterback in the offseason breaks down is that Ryan Tannehill beats out all of those quarterbacks in almost every single statistical category. While Teddy Bridgewater and Gardner Minshew’s quarterback ratings are well above average, Tannehill’s quarterback rating is still eight points above theirs. If the coaching staff and the new management staff think that the quarterback position needs to change in the offseason I wouldn’t necessarily understand it unless the team could save a lot of money and still bring in someone like Bridgewater or Minshew to fill in that role for a year two. The most likely outcome here is the Titans restructure and resign Tannehill to a one or two-year extension in the offseason and might look to draft a Quarterback if one falls to them at pick 11 or they see an opportunity to trade up. If they don’t draft one this offseason, they might look to draft one of the top Quarterbacks in 2024. The last, and perhaps most far-fetched option, is the Titans find some way to dump Tannehill in the offseason and are able to bring in Tom Brady via free agency or Aaron Rodgers via trade with the Green Bay Packers. Tom Brady is known to have a very friendly relationship with head coach Mike Vrabel and might have some interest in joining the Titans in the offseason if they could find some way to work out a deal. Aaron Rodgers to Tennessee has been speculated recently and with new management coming into Tennessee, they might look to pull off a big deal once all the front office staff is finalized and they can get to work negotiating and evaluating what they want to do with the roster.

Offensive Line:

When you watched the Titans play this season it was apparent what the biggest hole in the roster was, and that was the offensive line. This line gave up the most sacks per dropback, the most pressures per drop back, and the most negative run plays in the league and was ranked 32nd in almost every category. To put it bluntly, they were historically bad. Now with the inevitable release of LT Taylor Lewan, and the probable retirement of Center Ben Jones, the Titans will be looking for a new starter in just about every position on the Line this offseason besides Right Tackle. The Titans need to address the problems on the O-Line in the Draft as well as Free Agency, so let’s take a look at the starting quality Linemen that will be on the open market that the Titans should consider bringing in.

(All stats are an average of the player’s last three years in the league. I will only show players with above-average stats that would make quality starters in my eyes for the Tennessee Titans or any team in the NFL)

Best Statistical Offensive Guards Currently Available in 2023 Free Agency:

Ben Powers:

Powers is a swing tackle who has really impressed the past few seasons. Playing at both left guard and right guard he has shown his ability to be an outstanding pass protector as well as an above-average run blocker (which you have to be to play in that Baltimore system). He has taken over the starting left guard role in Baltimore and would make a great addition to any offensive line. With him being only 26 years old, he could be the Titans starting guard for years to come.

LG/RG

26 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 438 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 329 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 41 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 34 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 297 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 73.7 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 57.2 Average

Isaac Seumalo:

The former third-round pick Seumalo has played just about every position on the Eagle’s offensive line since being drafted in 2016. Playing mostly inside, he has shown how solid of a pass protector he is boasting an average pass protection grade of 79.2 his past three seasons combined. Seumalo is one of the most versatile linemen in Free Agency this offseason and would make a great addition to the Titan’s offensive line no matter where they decide to play him.

LG/RG/RT/C

29 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 224 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 280 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 37 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 29 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 165 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 79.2 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 66.3 Average

Dalton Risner:

While PFF isn’t exactly foolproof, you can use their grades to help back up your assumptions about a player and can use their grades to aid in your evaluation of stasticts. When you look at the former second-round pick Risner, he has never had a season where he averages below a 69 grade for pass protection. His pass protection grades are some of the most consistent around the league and his stasticts back that up as well. He almost never commits penalties (just three called penalties in the past 3 seasons combined) and is still young enough to be the Titan’s starting left guard for the duration of his contract. If he hits the open market, he immediately becomes one of the most dependable linemen in free agency.

LG

27 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 244 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 101 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 32 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 22 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 932 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 71.9 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 56.7 Average

Will Hernandez:

Coming out of college Will Hernandez was considered a high first-round lock. He ended up falling just out of the first round and was drafted by the New York Giants with the 34th overall pick. While Hernandez hasn’t lived up to his expectations, he hasn’t been a total bust either. Will has definitely had his ups and downs in the league but has been able to put together some really good games in his career. Hernandez has consistently struggled with consistency in his career. In Arizona’s first 7 games this season, he gave up a total of 22 pressures, in their final 6 games he only gave up a total of 3 pressures. If he can lock in and get more consistent with his blocking technique, he has the talent to be a starting swing guard in the NFL.

LG/RG

27 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 140 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 119 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 30 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 20 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 148 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 61.6 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 59.2 Average

Nate Herbig:

Herbig is another versatile interior lineman who should be on the Titan’s radar. Herbig signed with the Eagles as an undrafted free agent out of Stanford in 2019 and has been a starter ever since his second year in the league. He bounced around from left guard to right guard for the Eagles and also this season for the Jets. Had four games this season where he didn’t give up a single QB pressure. With Herbig being only 24 years old, he’s as young as some rookies the titans would be looking at drafting but comes with four years of NFL experience. If the Jets let him hit the open market, he’s a solid long-term option for the interior of the O-Line.

RG/LG/C

24 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 424 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 181 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 29 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 20 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 116 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 64.8 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 64.1 Average

Nick Gates:

While Gates doesn’t provide the experience some of the other players might, he definitely adds quality and potential. Gates hasn’t started many games in the last few seasons, but in the ones he has played in he’s been a very quality offensive lineman. He is an extremely versatile Lineman who has played 4 out of the 5 lineman positions in the NFL. Has over 200 snaps at right tackle, over 1,000 snaps at center, and over 300 snaps at guard. In his time in the NFL, Gates has only allowed two sacks in his entire career. Even if the Titans don’t plan on starting Gates, he would be a tremendous backup for almost every position on the line.

C/LG/RT/RG

27 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 887 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 296 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 39 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 33 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 118 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 60.1 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 62.9 Average

Andrew Wylie:

Wylie is a versatile lineman who has over 1,000 snaps played at both right tackle and right guard as well as over 500 snaps played at left guard in his career. The veteran Lineman started his career as an offensive guard and has since moved to tackle in the past three seasons. When you take a look back at his career, his best season as a blocker came in 2019 when the Chiefs had him playing left guard. He allowed just 8 hurries all season but was then moved to right guard the following season which didn’t fit his play as much as the left side did.

RT/RG/LG

28 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 266 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 100 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 33 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 23 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 238 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 67.2 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 59.1 Average

Connor McGovern:

LG/RG/C

25 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 194 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 97 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 32 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 22 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 502 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 67 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 56.7 Average

Max Scharping:

Scharping is a former second-round pick of the Houston Texans. While Scharping hasn’t had the most successful career in the NFL thus far, he hasn’t shown anything so bad that he should be written off as a career backup just yet. He is still only 26 years old and honestly has been an above-average pass blocker most of his time in the NFL. With all that happened in his time in Houston with multiple coaching changes, QB controversies, and not having the best offensive coordinators, a fresh start will be good for the ’19 second-round pick. As of me writing this breakdown, Scharping is about to be thrust into a starting role with the Bengals as they enter the playoffs due to their starting guard Alex Cappa going down with an injury. If he performs well, that might get him on the Titan’s radar for a potential signing this offseason.

LG/RG

26 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 222 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 166 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 30 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 23 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 189 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 62.4 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 52.6 Average

Best Statistical Centers Currently Available in 2023 Free Agency:

Garrett Bradbury:

C

27 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 189 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 99 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 32 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 21 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 173 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 50.2 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 69.5 Average

Bradley Bozeman:

C/LG/RG

28 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 223 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 313 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 39 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 30 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 353 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 63.2 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 67.2 Average

Ethan Pocic:

C/LG/RG

27 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 239 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 205 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 43 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 31 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty: 783 Snaps

PFF Pass Blocking Grade: 58.6 Average

PFF Run Blocking Grade: 72.3 Average

Best Statistical Offensive Tackles Currently Available in 2023 Free Agency:

Orlando Brown Jr:

LT/RT

26 Years Old

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Sack Allowed: 186 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hit Allowed: 102 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Hurry Allowed: 26 Snaps

Pass Blocking Snaps Per Pressure Allowed: 18 Snaps

Offensive Snaps per Penalty:

PFF Pass Blocking Grade:

PFF Run Blocking Grade:

Top Potential Day Two and Three Analytical Left Tackle Prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft:

This list of players is compiled of Draft eligible Left Tackles that were standouts statistically this season in the listed statistics below. Each players statistics are an average of their career not just the 2022-23 NCAA season.

Braeden Daniels: Utah

  • 6’4″ / 297lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 101 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 282 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 353 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 32 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 27 Pass Blocking Snaps

Daniels is a versatile Left Tackle who can play multiple positions on the offensive line. Daniels started his career at left guard, playing there for 2 and a half seasons before switching to right tackle in 2021. It was announced in 2022 that he would transition to left tackle and Daniels has really found a home there. Allowing no sacks, no quarterback hits, and only receiving two penalties all season, Daniels has proven he is an NFL-caliber Left Tackle.

Blake Freeland: BYU

  • 6’8″ / 305lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 164 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 701 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 127 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 48 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 33 Pass Blocking Snaps

Freelands first two seasons at BYU were spent at right tackle where he was still a solid lineman, but wasn’t getting much NFL buzz. After the 2020 season, he made the switch to left tackle where he has solidified himself as the nations leading statistical left tackle. He cut his pressures and hurries allowed in half after making the positional switch and in total has allowed just 8 quarterback hurries in the last two seasons combined (872 pass-blocking snaps).

Karsen Barnhart: Michigan

  • 6’5″ / 308lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 371 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 271 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 180 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 32 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 25 Pass Blocking Snaps

Barnhart is a lineman that has never really found his home on the Michigan offensive line. He’s played 550 snaps at right tackle, 361 at left tackle, 174 at left guard, and 25 at right guard. If a team is looking for a swing tackle or a solid versatile lineman who can play anywhere on the offensive line, Barnhart is worth a look.

Anton Harrison: Oklahoma

  • 6’5″ / 315lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 124 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 250 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 334 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 39 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 30 Pass Blocking Snaps

Harrison is your classic lockdown Left Tackle prospect who is a two-year starter on the Sooner’s offensive line. He has played over 95% of his college snaps at Left Tackle and seems to have a hold of that position.

Kadeem Telfort: UAB

  • 6’8″ / 330lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 101 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 198 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 132 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 80 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 38 Pass Blocking Snaps

Telfot is one of the few players on this list that is a pure left tackle. Telfort was a 4-star Offensive Tackle recruit coming out of High School and originally committed to Florida before switching his enrollment to UAB. He is an absolute eraser on the edge and handles Conference USA edge rushers and defensive ends with ease. His mobility isn’t the greatest (Being 6’8″ and 330lbs) and struggled a bit during his only non-conference game this season against LSU allowing 2 QB hits which were his only ones allowed all season.

Darnell Wright: Tennessee

  • 6’6″ / 335lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 122 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 146 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 132 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 44 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 27 Pass Blocking Snaps

Wright is a swing tackle that has progressed every single year he’s played at Tenessee. He was considered the top offensive tackle in the class of 2019 and came into Knoxville as a right tackle. After his first two seasons, he moved to left tackle where he played and started the 2021 season before being moved back to right tackle for the 2022 season. He really came into his own this year allowing no sacks and only 5 hurries all season. Against Georgia and Alabama combined, Wright allowed only one pressure and one hurry and the starting right tackle. While Wright broke out this season at a right tackle, it is still a possibility he could work his way back to being a left tackle in the NFL with some time and coaching.

Anderson Hardy: Appalachian State

  • 6’6″ / 290lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 164 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 138 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 122 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 46 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 27 Pass Blocking Snaps

Hardy is another pure LT prospect.

Matt Goncalves: Pittsburgh

  • 6’6″ / 315lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 499 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 268 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 101 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 40 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 26 Pass Blocking Snaps

Goncalves is an extremely disciplined swing tackle prospect. Playing over 500 career snaps at left tackle, over 800 snaps at right tackle, and even over 40 snaps at left guard, he can provide extreme value to a team that values versatile linemen up front. He is perhaps the most consistent tackle prospect eligable for the draft never allowing more than 8 hurries a season all 3 years at Pitt.

Javon Foster: Missouri

  • 6’5″ / 319lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 163 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 150 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 210 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 39 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 27 Pass Blocking Snaps

Ryan Hayes: Michigan

  • 6’7″ / 305lbs
  • Averages One Penalty Every 339 Offensive Snaps
  • Averages One Sack every 237 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hit Every 118 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Hurry Every 33 Pass Blocking Snaps
  • Allows One Quarterback Pressure Every 23 Pass Blocking Snaps

Top 25 Players Left in the 2022 NFL Draft (Day 3) That I would Like The Titans To Target

  1. Tariq Woolen
  2. Calvin Austin III
  3. Kingsley Enagbare
  4. Zach Tom
  5. Cade Otton
  6. Zyon McCollum
  7. Jamaree Salyer
  8. Isaiah Likely
  9. Max Mitchell
  10. Daniel Faalele
  11. Khalil Shakir
  12. Jalyn Armour–Davis
  13. Darian Kinnard
  14. Matt Waletzko
  15. Matt Araiza
  16. Romeo Doubs
  17. Christopher Allen
  18. Joshua Williams
  19. Markquese Bell
  20. Tyler Badie
  21. Cordell Volson
  22. Cameron Dicker
  23. Smoke Monday
  24. Daniel Bellinger
  25. Jake Ferguson