The Tennessee Titans have themselves a complete group of complete tight ends. A lot of the talk this preseason, and through two games so far, has centered around Jonnu Smith and his 2020 breakout campaign, which seems to be going according to plan so far. And, rightfully so, Smith has star potential in the NFL, and he’s living up to those expectations with three touchdowns through two games (T-2nd). But, Anthony Firkser is carving out a role of his own in this offense as well. We might not talk about him as often, but he had a noticeable impact on the game on Sunday.
The Titans signed Firkser to a one-year $750K deal back in the spring. Re-signing him was an underrated move that, by and large, led to little more discussion than the passing on of a headline. But, we saw just what Firkser is capable of during the Titans postseason run a season ago, when he caught two touchdowns in three games. He proved to be a reliable route-runner who had a knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage, getting open, and making the catch when he needed to.
He earned the trust of Ryan Tannehill, and that’s translating to a new dynamic in the Titans offense in 2020. In the 33-30 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Firkser only tallied four catches for 45 yards. That might not jump off the stat sheet at you, but if you look at the context, you’ll see some important catches.
First things first, he was targeted four times – so, it’s worth noting that he did catch 100% of the balls thrown his way. Three of his four receptions came on third down, and two of those actually converted. Adam Humphries has the reputation for being the guy that the Titans look to on third down. But, it’s nice to have a rotation of reliable guys to pose multiple threats to opposing defenses on third down. Plus, if the Titans continue to use Humphries in that role alone, defensive coordinators will eventually figure that shit out. Having another move-the-chains guy in the offense helps keep the Titans offense diverse.
Firkser’s the type of player that defenses might not key in on, but if you’re not ready for him, he can make you pay. He can block. He can run. And, he can score. Now, you can check the ‘move the chains’ box on the guy too. He’s an unheralded guy, but he’s one that could prove to be important to a Titans team that is hopeful for another good postseason run.
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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