We’re one week away from the 2023 NFL Draft, and I’m continuing my deep dive into this class. I’ve spent the last few months chronicling first round options for the Tennessee Titans. Last week, I looked at options in the middle rounds. You see where I’m going with this – it only makes sense for me to dig a little deeper into the guys who could be available in the 6th or 7th round, or as un-drafted free agents. LFG.
Late Round Sleeper Picks for the Titans
TE Payne Durham, Purdue – In a solid tight end class, Durham is being slept on. He has the exact skill set the Titans need at the position after adding a blocking tight end and having the play-maker tight end on the roster already. Durham has the long frame to go up and high-point the ball at the point of the catch, and he’s nimble in the open field with the ball in his hands. He’s the complete tight end who can do a little bit of everything.
OT Joey Fisher, Shepherd – Whether it’s tackle or guard, someone should give Fisher a chance. He’s raw and the level of competition concerns are valid, but he was downright dominant and he plays with such a physical and nasty style that I believe he has the competitive spirit to make a roster better.
DL/EDGE DJ Johnson, Oregon – Johnson was great during the Reese’s Senior Bowl week. It doesn’t always show up on his tape, and I think that’s probably why he’s lower on draft boards. But, he plays with solid athleticism, and he has great length, size, and power. He could stand to be more consistent, but the Titans would be drafting him late to be a rotational guy and in that role, he’d be a great addition.
EDGE/LB Isaiah Land, Florida A&M – I’m not sure what you do with Land at the next level, but he is a fiery competitor that plays with a chip on his shoulder. He’s a fluid athlete that can play at linebacker, though he’s not necessarily rangy enough to cover move guys. He can also rush the passer, though he doesn’t have the thick frame to project as an immediate impact guy. That’s why he’s seen as a ‘tweener, but the bottom line is that he’s explosive, plays hard, and offers value on special teams to boot.
CB Darrell Luter, Jr., South Alabama – It’s a deep cornerback class, but Luter is going to end up being a great value for anyone who drafts him late. There’s not a lot about him that pops as ‘elite,’ but man, he can win match-ups, and that pedigree is what’s going to give him a shot at the next level.
LB/S Marte Mapu, Sacramento State – Mapu is another small school prospect that plays with relentless effort, drive, and heart. He is just an outright baller with a natural feel for the game, and seems at home on the football field. He’s a tracker in the open field with a knack for closing on plays and knocking balls down. Mapu stays active on the play and looks like a lump of clay ready to be molded for a role in the NFL.
OG Jordan McFadden, Clemson – He was Clemson’s left tackle in 2022, but because of his size, I imagine he’ll move inside. The Titans are looking for pass protectors, and McFadden absolutely has the athleticism, speed, and movement ability to be a factor in pass protection. And, he won’t cost this team a premium.
RB Keaton Mitchell, East Carolina – I don’t think Mitchell is going to be the Derrick Henry heir apparent, but Mike Vrabel talks about adding speed to the offense, and Mitchell has it in spades. If a team is wanting Devon Achane without investing the early round pick in him, Mitchell would be a steal late. He would immediately be the complementary shifty speedy back for this team.
WR Jayden Reed, Michigan State – Reed definitely has the speed to be the spark plug in this receiving corps and he offers versatility as a returner as well. His 2022 wasn’t quite as impressive as his 2021, and if you’re a subscriber to Stacking The Inbox, you already know the important context as to why that might’ve been the case. Reed would be a solid addition to this passing game.
S Daniel Scott, Cal – There’s an element of physicality that is missing from Scott’s game and that makes me think he might not be a Titans sort of guy. But, I like the way he’s built. I like his range, and his athleticism. And, this team could definitely stand to add a guy that could potentially play free safety just in case…well…you know what? I don’t want to talk about that today.
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Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network, and a Dogs Playing Poker on velvet connoisseur. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD, #BeBetter, and ‘Minds right, asses tight.’ “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, Yankee Candle, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley.
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