Pro Football Focus is releasing their starter breakdowns from last year, and releasing them to the public. For example this is what the breakdown for the Titans looks like
First up today is the Tennessee #Titans lineup: https://t.co/gYAziaJ6HH pic.twitter.com/9aQ4elqY6f
— Pro Football Focus (@PFF) February 14, 2014
Listed as the top needs for Tennessee are:
1. CB
2. LB
3. DE
*This list does not include any likely cuts*
If the Titans can sign Alterraun Verner and Ropati Pitoitua then I think the needs list reshapes to:
1. LB
2. RT
3.Pass Rusher
This is the list Titans fans are more used to seeing. So since we are using their list, which players do they think can fill those needs the best in free agency?
1. LB- Karlos Dansby, Arizona and Brandon Spikes, NE
If the Titans could land these two at ILB positions it would definitely change the make up of this team. Dansby is a veteran with the balance to blitz or drop into coverage, his only obstacle is that he is 32 and he may want to stay in Arizona to finish out his career.
Spikes on the other hand is practically a lock to hit the free agent market, which is great news for the Titans. Spikes is an enforcer and having he and Bernard Pollard on the same team would be a great way to toughen up this defense.
2. RT- Zach Strief, NO
Not only is Strief the highest rated right tackle in free agency, he was the highest rated right tackle in the league last year. He was an excellent pass protector and would be a stark contrast to what David Stewart has been for the Titans in the past.
Here is the thing, Strief earned a -0.1 as a run blocker, and is 30 years old. Despite being the absolute best RT in a thin market, he may not be a fit for what the Titans want to do offensively.
3. Pass rusher- Brian Orakpo, Washington
Orakpo is a stud of a pass rusher who has already proven that, when healthy, he can be a game changer. The only real issue with Brian Orakpo is his contract. Seeing as how he is only 28, a long-term contract will likely be the best selling point for him. Will someone offer him a six or seven year contract in a system he fits well in? I'm not sure, but if the Titans do and land him then they better be committed to the 3-4 for a long time.