New Titan Andre Dillard has “Sights Set On” Starting Left Tackle Position
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Titans began the process of formally introducing their reported free agent signings from week one of free agency and they got things started with offensive lineman Andre Dillard. Dillard spoke openly about his desire to win the starting left tackle position in his first public comments since joining the team.
Dillard was drafted in the first round of the 2019 draft and was expected to be a starting left tackle in Philadelphia. While Dillard has played a few different spots during his time with the Eagles, 617 of his career offensive snaps have come at left tackle. Dillard made it known his goal is to start there.
“Left tackle is definitely what I have my eyes set on. That’s my goal,” Dillard explained. “I’m going to compete and give everything I have to get that spot, but obviously I’m willing to do whatever is best for the team at the end of the day. But left tackle is definitely what I have my sights set on.”
You have to love the confidence from Dillard. There is a massive opening at left tackle and Dillard has the ability to fill it. Dillard had to mention he would do what is “best for the team,” as all guys typically say, but it is obvious Dillard came to Tennessee for a real shot at playing the position that got him drafted in the first round in 2019.
The Titans could choose to draft a tackle early in the NFL Draft which could create some competition for Dillard. There still is a chance that a rookie wins that battle and Dillard moves to a different spot on the offensive line. If not left tackle, odds are Dillard will see time at left guard where he has played 22 snaps and where he played the majority of the time in 2022 as a reserve.
Titans Related Stories
BYARD DECLINES PAYCUT: The Tennessee Titans approached All-Pro safety Kevin Byard about a pay cut, but Byard refused to take it, per multiple reports. Byard and the Titans now sit at a “crossroads” in regard to his future with the team. CLICK HERE
TITANS TO SIGN MURPHY-BUNTING: The Titans have addressed one of their other biggest areas of need outside their offensive line with the announcement that they are close to a deal with former Tampa Bay cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting. CLICK HERE
TITANS FREE AGENT GRADES: The Tennessee Titans have signed five new players so far in free agency, but how smart of a signing was each move? Let’s take a look at some grades for each of the Titans' moves up to this point. CLICK HERE