The Tennessee Titans offensive line was arguably the biggest positional need going into the offseason. They finished the 2023 NFL season tied with the New York Jets for the fourth-most sacks allowed (64). Only the Carolina Panthers (65), Washington Commanders (65), and New York Giants (85) gave up more.
As such, Tennessee took measurable steps toward improving the offensive line, with free-agent signings center Lloyd Cushenberry and guard Saahdiq Charles. The Titans also took Alabama tackle JC Latham with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft.
However, one outlet is unconvinced that the acquisitions will yield positive results. The 33rd Team recently published its Offensive Line Power Rankings, and the Titans checked in at No. 26 overall.
Otherwise stated, the seventh-worst in the NFL.
Ranking all 32 starting offensive lines entering the season 💪 https://t.co/HqLj91I8AN pic.twitter.com/A1WMlxhmPA
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) August 2, 2024
It’s fair to expect Latham to endure the typical rookie-growing pains. However, the upside is enormous for a player responsible for just two sacks allowed during his college career. The addition of offensive line coach Bill Callahan should also provide a significant boost to the group.
The right side of the offensive line is the most questionable at this point of training camp. However, with Nicholas Petit-Frere recently activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, the Titans have to be hopeful that the 24-year-old is motivated to improve upon his disappointing 2023 season.
Petit-Frere will be competing for the starting job against undrafted free agent John Ojukwu, 2023 NFL draft pick Jaelyn Duncan, and Leroy Watson, who was acquired in a trade with the Cleveland Browns, among others.
Tennessee will almost certainly utilize the preseason to fine-tune the offensive line, which will be vital to keeping second-year quarterback Will Levis upright more often this coming season.
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