Following a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2023, the Tennessee Titans have made substantial changes in hopes of revitalizing their fortunes in the AFC South.
Among the most notable shifts is the hiring of Brian Callahan as head coach, signaling a new era for the franchise. With a restructured roster, the Titans aim to reestablish their competitive edge. Here are the five most valuable players for the 2024 Titans:
**5. Left Tackle JC Latham**
The Titans’ offensive line has struggled with stability, particularly at left tackle, leading to an alarming 3.8 sacks per game last season. To address this, the Titans have turned to JC Latham, a standout from Alabama. Latham’s commitment to excellence is evident as he has worked closely with San Francisco 49ers All-Pro Trent Williams, studying film and refining his skills. Titans offensive line coach Bill Callahan has noted that Latham is adapting well despite the challenge of switching from right to left tackle. His performance will be crucial in protecting the quarterback and improving the Titans’ offensive line play.
**4. Wide Receiver Calvin Ridley**
With the addition of DeAndre Hopkins and Tyler Boyd, Calvin Ridley becomes part of a potent receiving corps. Ridley, who signed a four-year, $92 million contract, is expected to be a game-changer. After a suspension in 2022, Ridley returned with a strong performance, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards and demonstrating his deep-threat capabilities. With his ability to make significant gains on long passes, Ridley could become a key weapon for the Titans’ revamped offense, especially in supporting their young quarterback.
**3. Defensive Lineman Jeffery Simmons**
Jeffery Simmons remains the cornerstone of the Titans’ defense. Entering his sixth season, Simmons is expected to anchor a defense that underperformed last year, ranking 18th in the NFL. His health and performance are pivotal; over the past three seasons, Simmons has been a standout, recording impressive statistics including at least 55 solo tackles, 31 tackles for loss, and 21.5 sacks. His continued dominance will be essential for elevating the Titans’ defensive unit.
**2. Cornerback L’Jarius Sneed**
Acquired from the Kansas City Chiefs, L’Jarius Sneed is a significant upgrade to the Titans’ secondary. Sneed’s impressive stats over his first four seasons—223 solo tackles, 40 pass defenses, 10 interceptions, and four forced fumbles—highlight his impact on the field. His presence could dramatically improve a defense that struggled in pass coverage and interceptions last year, providing a much-needed boost to the Titans’ defensive backfield.
**1. Quarterback Will Levis**
The Titans are entrusting Will Levis with the starting quarterback role after he began his rookie season as a backup. Levis showed potential in nine starts last season, passing for 1,808 yards with eight touchdowns and four interceptions. His performance in the preseason has been promising, and with new additions like running back Tony Pollard and wideouts Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd, Levis has the support needed to thrive. His development and ability to lead the offense will be critical for the Titans’ success in 2024.
