Day two needs for the Titans leave Jon Robinson with an interesting dilemma

The Titans went defensive line with their first round selection on Thursday night, grabbing Jeffery Simmons out of Mississippi State. The move solidifies the defensive front for the future, but leaves Titans’ general manager Jon Robinson in a fascinating position for Friday night’s picks at No. 51 and No. 82.

With the way the board fell, it’s tough to argue what Robinson opted to do on Thursday night. Christian Wilkins, Chris Lindstrom, Brian Burns and Garrett Bradbury each came off the board in the picks before the Titans, leaving the board relatively empty for Robinson and company. Simmons was easily the most impactful player left, possibly outside of pass rusher Montez Sweat, who was reportedly flagged with a heart condition.

It would have been interesting to see Robinson’s decision if Bradbury or Lindstrom had been available, along with Simmons. None of that matters now, however.

The Titans are left with one absolute need on the roster to fill — right guard. The surprising release of Josh Kline created that need, which has yet to be addressed. Big time free agent addition Rodger Saffold will replace Quinton Spain, but as things currently stand, Kevin Pamphile or maybe even Dennis Kelly would be the likely starter on the other side at right guard. There’s obvious depth concerns there, but above all else, the Titans need to maximize that offensive line group to protect Marcus Mariota and to clear the way for Derrick Henry.

While guard may be the most obvious need, you could make a strong case for the Titans needing to add another receiver. What makes things more interesting here is what’s left at the position entering Friday night. D.K. Metcalf headlines the group, along with A.J. Brown, Deebo Samuel, JJ Arcega-Whiteside, Hakeem Butler and Parris Campbell.

If a couple of these names fall to No. 51, would Robinson take one? Or would he feel obligated to fill his need at guard? It obviously depends on what they feel like would be left by the time No. 82 rolls around. What’s the falloff between that group and guys like Emanuel Hall or Kelvin Harmon?

As things stand right now, it’s Corey Davis, Adam Humphries, Tajae Sharpe and Taywan Taylor at receiver for Marcus Mariota. Delanie Walker back in the picture should help, but the Titans are in a spot where they would have to rely on Sharpe and Taylor heavily once again. That didn’t go so well last season.

I think it’s probably important to keep in mind how aggressive Jon Robinson has been since taking over as the Titans’ GM. He’s not exactly one to leave things to chance. Just a pure guess here, but if he takes his receiver and sees his guard pool dwindling around the 60th selection, Robinson would likely have no issue pulling the trigger and coming back up to get his guy.