Titans HC Mike Vrabel Gives Graphic Description of OL Struggles, but Cites Improvement with Pads

The Tennessee Titans' offensive line has improved according to head coach Mike Vrabel, but that didn't stop Vrabel from using some colorful language to describe the blocking early in training camp.

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Titans are now into the second week of training camp and the pads are on, but during the first week of camp with no pads and limited physical contact, the offensive line struggled to contain the Titans' defensive front.

Head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged that after practice on Tuesday. He used some colorful language to do so, describing the offensive line's performance early on in a comedically graphic way, but also admitting the protection has improved.

"We've had some better pockets with pads on," Vrabel first acknowledged. "Thought that it looked like (poop) through a brass horn the first couple of days and I think it's been better with pads on. I think that these guys have been able to try to, again, trying to build some depth in the middle, quarterback can step up and try to get some width to the edge rushers. Not that it was perfect, but I would say it is improved from my vantage point." 

Vrabel talked about how he evaluates the offensive line's performance a bit differently in practice and gave more information on how the offensive line is progressing and what exactly that progression requires.

"I try to stand back there(by the quarterback) and that's the one thing that I can kind of feel. I'm like 'maybe I wouldn't want to be a quarterback on this play' or hey there is some comfort level," Vrabel said. "Again, they're working together, they're seeing the games, they're building profiles on rushers. This guy likes to rush this way, this guy likes to do certain moves. That's all part of the progression I think."

A lot of the noise coming out of training camp has been about the defense winning most days and the pass rush in particular having success. It has caused some mild concern about the offensive line even in these early stages. The words of Vrabel should create some level of patience though.

The fact remains this is a new offense, with four new offensive linemen in the starting unit, going against one of the best fronts in the NFL, less than ten practices into training camp. They deserve some time before criticism gets too weighty. 

Time creates no guarantee of success though. This group is still no sure bet, but with Vrabel's recent comments describing things as headed in the right direction, there should still be a healthy amount of optimism that this year's offensive line will be a big step above last year's.

Titans Training Camp Stories

• Kelly Speaks on Hopkins: Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins was expected to be familiar with some elements of the offense under new offensive coordinator Tim Kelly, but Kelly talked about how Hopkins is learning the new material and the impact he's had on his teammates. CLICK HERE
• Titans Creative Offense: The Tennessee Titans focused on the red zone at Monday's practice and that brought some unique and exciting plays out of the playbook for Tim Kelly's new offense. CLICK HERE
• Levis Catches Fire: The Tennessee Titans' rookie pass Will Levis comes out on fire at training camp and throws five touchdown passes including three straight scoring throws in 7-on-7 drill. CLICK HERE