Titans Draft Class Rests On Skoronski In Year One

The Tennessee Titans 2023 draft class will be grade by what the accomplish as a group, but at least in year one, much of that grade will depend on Peter Skoronski.

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK

NASHVILLE - The draft grades received by the Tennessee Titans in the day immediately following the 2023 NFL Draft have been high, and the overall perception of this group is that, while not flashy, it is substantial and adds value to the roster, which was in desperate need of upgrading. 

However, those grades will ultimately mean little if these draft picks don't have solid careers for the Titans in the coming years.

Looking at this class as a whole, it seems, at least for now, that Will Levis will begin his rookie campaign as no better than the No.2 quarterback behind Ryan Tannehill.

Likewise, Tyjae Spears will begin as the backup to Derrick Henry, though he should find himself getting on the field earlier than Levis as the No.2 back and perhaps as the third-down guy from day one. 

The same should be valid for Josh Whyle, the No. 3 tight end behind Chig Okonkwo, and Trevon Wesco, though Wesco is perceived as more of a blocker than a pass catcher.      

Jaelyn Duncan could also find himself in a growing role as the season progresses, but he is likely to begin this year in a reserve role, as long as injuries don't become a thing again for a third consecutive season. 

Should Rookie receiver Colton Dowell remain on the roster, he could also find the field sporadically early on. Still, he will likely need at least one year of development before becoming an impactful presence.   

     That leaves another rookie who could earn a starter's spot from day one. The team is counting on him to do just that.

Peter Skoronski, the No. 11 overall pick in the draft class and the Titan's first-round pick, was considered one of the "safest" players in this class and a guy who could come in and take a starting role immediately. 

The Titans are counting on the talented former Northwestern standout to step into the lineup at either left tackle or guard and man that spot for at least the next four seasons.   

If Skoronski cannot do that or plays below expectations, then the perception of this class will take an immediate hit. 

Only time will tell how good or bad this class will be overall, but at least for the moment, in year one, the fate of this class rests with Skoronski and what he can do to carry this group until his classmates have time to gain their footing and help the cause. 

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