Titans 2021 UDFA Profile: OG Cole Banwart

With training camp fast approaching, we thought it would be a good time to showcase some of the UDFA’s that have a chance to make this roster.

The Tennessee Titans made a few investments on the offensive line both via free agency and the NFL draft. The biggest of which came in the second round when general manager Jon Robinson drafted former North Dakota State offensive tackle Dillon Radunz. The team also re-signed swing tackle Ty Sambrailo and added another veteran tackle, Kendall Lamm. On the subtraction side of things, the Isaiah Wilson nightmare is over, and veteran right tackle Dennis Kelly was released.

Among the team’s undrafted free agents is Iowa’s Cole Banwart.

Banwart comes in at 6-foot-4 and 300 pounds. Banwart has the type of athletic profile that allows him to fire off the ball in the hurry. He’s not the biggest prospect, but what he lacks in size, he makes up for with impressive athleticism. Banwart brings some versatility with him. He can play all three positions on the interior of the O-line. Banwart started all eight games for Iowa in 2020, spending time at both left and right guard. He was also viewed as the primary backup at the center position by the coaching staff.

Banwart earned several honors for his play in 2020. He was named third-team All-America by Pro Football Focus, second-team All-Big Ten by coaches in the conference, media members and Phil Steele. He was also named second-team All-Big Ten by The Associated Press.

During draft prep, Banwart ran the 40-yard dash in 5.13 seconds. He posted a 27.5-inch vertical jump and put up 22 reps on the bench press.

Banwart appears to have the potential to develop into a quality NFL backup. His position versatility could add a ton of value to the backend of a roster. Banwart’s athletic profile fits what the Titans try to accomplish on offense in their zone based running scheme.

However, the team’s busy offseason on their offensive line will make it challenging for Banwart to crack the 53-man roster. Ben Jones, Rodger Saffold and Nate Davis are locked in as the team’s three starters across the interior of the O-line. They make up an impressive trio. Second-year player Aaron Brewer should have a great chance to make the team as well after impressing in limited action as a rookie last season while backing up Saffold.

Banwart will have to battle with players such as Brewer, Daniel Munyer, Adam Coon and David Quessenberry. Another UDFA, BYU’s Chandon Herring may also have the ability to play inside.

I ultimately believe Banwart has a chance to make the practice squad, but the 53-man roster may be too lofty of a goal considering how crowded things are here.