I’m a Tennessee Titans fan. I’m an Alabama Crimson Tide fan. Maybe it’s just the mere-exposure effect taking place – err, the ‘familiarity principle’ – whichever term you want to use to describe this psychological phenomenon. But, I’ve watched ArDarius Stewart over the last several seasons. I’ve seen him produce consistently, do all the little things right, and now, he’s entering the NFL draft in a couple of weeks.
Stewart has an opportunity to thrive in such an environment as the Titans have created under general manager Jon Robinson and head coach Mike Mularkey.
Robinson seems to have a certain prototype when drafting players or signing free agents. In fairness, he’s only been through one draft and two free agency cycles – so, maybe he’s still holding a few tricks up his sleeve. But, for the most part, he seems to gravitate towards competitive guys of high character, who had productive college careers, and are willing to do the gritty work or whatever is asked of them.
Stewart is a versatile wide receiver who projects to specialize at the slot in the NFL. He recorded 54 receptions for 864 yards and eight touchdowns in 2016. Tack on his 68 rushing yards and his potential to throw a touchdown on any snap, and he seems like a legitimate weapon for the right NFL offense.
Such an offense figures to be one that doesn’t ask him to line up opposite NFL corners and beat them deep. Stewart isn’t polished enough to be a “true number one” receiver. He’s not going to win a lot of one-on-one match-ups, so a creative offensive coordinator on staff is a must. Stewart comes from a pro-style offense at Alabama, where he was asked to block in the run game. And, he carried that responsibility well – Stewart’s blocking ability is above average.
I’m imagining a more dynamic Kendall Wright with a higher football character. This seems like a no-brainer to me.
Stewart can also contribute on special teams. As we all know, the more ways you can pitch in to help a football team, the more you increase your value. Robinson and Mularkey like those types of guys.
Should Robinson pass on the wide receivers early in the draft, Stewart is a guy who should be able to come in and contribute right away. He certainly fits the mold of the Robinson-era Tennessee Titans. This could be a beautiful marriage.
Stoney Keeley is the editor of the SoBros Network and covers the WWE for WrestlingNews.co. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley, @WrestlingNewsCo
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