NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Titans made a move at the start of Day 3, vaulting up for a receiver who’s got two things they like in the position: College production and versatility.
Dez Fitzpatrick of Louisville will bring Tennessee size (nearly 6-2, 208) and good speed (4.47). While he lined up outside in his last two seasons for the Cardinals, he played in the slot some earlier in his career and again at the Senior Bowl.
Courtesy Louisville athletics
“They just told me they had to trade up for me when they saw that I was still on the board and how they feel that I fit into what they are trying to do in Nashville,” he said. “...They just said that they were really impressed that I play inside-outside at my size.”
He's an admirer of Larry Fitzgerald, Dez Bryant and especially Davante Adams.
Fitzpatrick thought he'd be late second day/ early third. Thought #Rams were also interested.
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) May 1, 2021
Already got a text from Ryan Tannehill, who said he likes his game and thinks he can be a weapon for TEN. pic.twitter.com/I8jZk5hide
The Titans gave up their fourth-rounder (126), their fifth-rounder (166) and their seventh-rounder (232) to move up 17 spots to 109 in a deal with the Panthers to get Fitzpatrick.
I do not have a beef with that deal.
I'm not going to knock the #Titans for moving up to get a receiver. Clear need, unaddressed in the first three rounds. If this is a guy they love who they think can produce and produce early, quality over quantity.
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) May 1, 2021
He should be in the top three with A.J. Brown as the clear ace and Josh Reynolds. Cam Batson and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine are next in a group that can still use some depth.
They still don't have an outright slot receiver.
They could feel fine about a rotation of people working there, including Brown, Fitzpatrick, Anthony Firkser, Darrynton Evans and Batson.
Or we could see another pick at the spot.