Titans offseason report: Marcus Mariota, key free agents spark optimism
There's no way to sugarcoat this: Ken Whisenhunt's first year as Tennessee Titans coach didn't go well.
After a messy divorce from former coach Mike Munchak, general manager Ruston Webster and Titans ownership hired Whisenhunt in 2014. Optimism ran high that Whisenhunt — a noted quarterback specialist — would help promising but often-injured Jake Locker.
That didn't happen.
Locker played in seven games, got hurt again and was benched in favor of rookie sixth-round pick Zach Mettenberger.
The Titans limped to a 2-14 record. Webster and Whisenhunt acknowledged there were a number of holes on the roster.
Consider this offseason a reset, especially with the arrival of Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Marcus Mariota with the draft's No. 2 pick.
Tennessee was also active in free agency, giving the roster a sudden injection of talent. Veteran jobs are at stake, but Titans coaches and executives can't help but be pleased with the new arrivals.
"Some veterans don't help the younger guys out," Whisenhunt said. "But from what I've seen with ours, it's kind of the other way. I've been around some veteran players that really work hard to help the young players out.
"This is the worst time of the year for a veteran player, since you are bringing in a whole new crew of guys to replace them. But they are veterans, and they understand what this game is about. To me, responding to the challenge can make us all better."
WATCH: AFC burning questions
Quarterback
Before the draft, the Titans hyped Mettenberger's abilities. But when they drafted Oregon's Mariota, the franchise tipped its hand as to its future plans. "I think it is fair to say you expect (Mariota) to start," Whisenhunt said. The problem is that Mariota likely will need time to adjust to playing in the NFL, so growing pains are to be expected. But if Mariota begins the season as the starter, how long might Whisenhunt wait to go to Mettenberger if the rookie struggles?
Running back
Tennessee used a second-round pick on Bishop Sankey last year, and he became the team's leading rusher after playing in all 16 games. Although that might seem like good news, Sankey's numbers won't scare opposing defensive coordinators: 152 attempts, 569 yards, 3.7 yards a carry, two touchdowns. Dexter McCluster can take on a few carries but is often most effective lined up at receiver.
Wide receiver
The Titans announced they picked up the fifth-year option on receiver Kendall Wright, who led the team in touchdown receptions (six) last season, so he'll likely be signed through 2016. But Tennessee also made a bold move, using its second-round pick on Dorial Green-Beckham, who at 6-5 and with a 4.49 time in the 40-yard dash has major talent. But he comes with serious off-field concerns stemming from a domestic violence charge that got him booted from Missouri. Veteran Nate Washington signed with the Houston Texans, but Tennessee added Harry Douglas through free agency. Justin Hunter has been a disappointment but could develop into a speedy deep threat with some coaching. Hakeem Nicks was a low-cost, low-risk addition that could pay dividends.
Tight end
Delanie Walker, who led the Titans last year in catches (63) and yards (890), returns and will be a big part of the offense, no matter which quarterback starts. A sure-handed tight end is going to be Mariota's or Mettenberger's best friend in 2015. Tennessee often runs out of two-tight-end sets, which means plenty of snaps for Craig Stevens.
Offensive line
One of Tennessee's biggest problems in 2014 was the blocking. The line allowed 50 sacks, 27th in the NFL. The rushing offense ranked 26th. Heading into next season, not much has changed. Tennessee did terminate tackle Michael Oher's contract. But the Titans still return five linemen, each having started at least five games last year. Left tackle Taylor Lewan and guard Chance Warmack headline the group. Third-round draft pick Jeremiah Poutasi adds depth along the interior.
Defensive line
Last season's three starters on the front — ends Jurrell Casey and Ropati Pitoitua and nose tackle Sammie Hill — are back. Casey is the most productive of the group, but the Titans added depth by re-signing end Karl Klug and drafting tackle Angelo Blackson in the fourth round.
Linebacker
The linebacking corps got a big boost with the free agent signing of pass rusher Brian Orakpo. Though he has battled injury problems — he's battle chronic tears to his pectoral muscles — Orakpo can be a solid addition if he stays on the field. Re-signing outside linebacker Derrick Morgan helps stabilize the unit, and inside linebackers Wesley Woodyard and Avery Williamson return. The retirement of veteran Kamerion Wimbley, however, eliminates some of the depth at the position.
Secondary
This unit was average last season, rankings 15th in the league in passing yards allowed (235.8 a game). But notable upgrades highlight the group: cornerback Perrish Cox, formerly of the San Francisco 49ers, and safety Da'Norris Searcy, formerly of the Buffalo Bills. Do-it-all safety Michael Griffin (112 tackles, three sacks and two interceptions) returns as the unit's leader, and cornerback Jason McCourty looks to build off of a solid 2014.
Special teams
Ryan Succop (19-for-22 on field goal attempts) returns to handle kicking duties and punter Brett Kern (46.8 yards an attempt) is also back. Veteran Leon Washington, who handled kickoff returns, is gone. Expect McCluster, who focused on punt returns last season, to handle both duties in the return game.
Coaching
The staff underwent a few changes, but the most notable was the hiring of longtime defensive coach and zone blitz guru Dick LeBeau as assistant head coach/defense. His presence should be evident immediately as he reunites with highly regarded coordinator Ray Horton. Mike Mularkey was promoted to assistant head coach/tight ends. Jason Tucker, who was formerly in the Canadian Football League, was hired as assistant wide receivers coach to replace Kevin Patullo, who left to join the New York Jets staff. Whisenhunt retains a major hand in the offense even though Jason Michael is the coordinator.
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Follow Lorenzo Reyes on Twitter @LorenzoGReyes