There has been a lot of discussion about the moves, or lack there of, that have been made in this offseason. Discussions have even gotten a litle spicy on this site.
DISCLAIMER: Everything from this line down is with the assumption that Pacman Jones is a Titan in 2007. I am going to operate with that assumption until he isn't. I have a feeling he is going to miss significant time in 2007, but that is yet to be determined.
There is no doubt that at first glance it appears the Titans are worse off than the 8-8 team we saw on the field in 2006. The Titans are without their top 2 receivers, reception wise from 2006, and a 1,200 yard rusher. Losing that 1,200 yard rusher leaves you with only an unproven 2nd year runner in the backfield. If that is bad enough, only one of the holes have been filled that were identified at the end of the season. (and that is debatable)
I don't think it is as bad as some people think though. Zack made a good point yesterday. The receivers were bad in 2006. Are they worse right now? Probably. If we assume a solid WR is drafted, our receivers will be better though. Gage can replace the production of Wade. Brandon Jones has the potential to be leaps and bounds better than Drew Bennett. Bring in a solid rookie as #2 and things are better than they first appeared.
The defense was bad last year. It hasn't gotten any worse. We mourn the loss of Robaire but he really didn't do that much last year. If you have Harper and Pacman at the corners and someone steps up to take Lamont's spot, the secondary is better. We will draft a DE that will be better than anyone that lined up opposite of KVB last season. Haynesworth has a lot to prove coming off that suspension. He is also in a contract season. That pretty much always lights a fire under guys. The defense will be better.
The offensive line got better each week last year. There is no reason to think they will not continue to improve the more they play together. David Stewart was playing his first season at right tackle and Michael Roos was playing his first season as left tackle. They will only get better.
The biggest reason the '07 Titans are better than the '06 version is because Vince will be in his 2nd year. He will be better adjusted to the NFL game. His upside is unlimited, especially when you consider how successful he was in his rookie year.
I still firmly believe this team is poised for a playoff run in 2007. Am I seeing life through my two-toned blue glasses? Probably, but having hope makes life a lot more fun.