After drafting in the top ten of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans made a surprising turnaround, finishing the season with a 9-7 record for a second place in the AFC South. The Titans were unable to qualify for the playoffs, but there is plenty to look forward in Tennessee.
2012 NFL Offseason Team Needs: Tennessee Titans
While Chris Johnson took a big step backwards this season after signing a big contract, the Titans saw flashes of brilliance from their rookie signal caller Jake Locker. Kenny Britt was dominant before going down with injury as well. Pieces are in place for the Titans to have an explosive offense. Improved play from the offensive line could open things up in a big way.
Defensively, the Titans could be in for some major changes. The pass rush needs to be drastically improved, and both safety positions need to be upgraded. If that isn't enough, Cortland Finnegan is hitting free agency, so Tennessee may need to find a replacement at cornerback as well.
After the jump, we’ll take a look at the biggest weaknesses on the Titans’ roster.
Offense
Interior Offensive Line: Center and both guard positions are glaring holes for the Titans. Jake Scott is a free agent, while Leroy Harris and Eugene Amano were terrible this season. Chris Johnson definitely lost some of his decisiveness and explosion this year, but he did not receive a ton of help from the middle of his offensive line.
Wide Receiver Depth: Kenny Britt was off to an amazing start to the season before blowing out his knee. The team’s wide receiver group definitely took a step back after he went down. The Titans would be wise to add some depth to the position either through free agency of the draft.
Defense
Defensive End: The Tennessee Titans finished the season with the No. 31 pass rush in the entire NFL. Derrick Morgan hasn't quite panned out, and upgrades are needed at both defensive end spots with three players at the position set to hit free agency.
Linebacker: Colin McCarthy and Akeem Ayers both stepped in and played well as rookies, but the Titans would like to complete the linebacker trio on the weak side. Preferably, a young linebacker added through the draft would fit in with Tennessee's defense.
Secondary: Four Titan safeties are free agents this offseason, but it’s a position that could have been upgraded to begin with. Also, the team could lose their top defender Cortland Finnegan this offseason. It’s safe to say the Titans defense will look drastically different entering training camp in July.
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