Tennessee Titans 2012 NFL Draft Review

Apr 29, 2012 - 5:19 PM (Sports Network) -

1 - Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor (5-10, 196); 2 - Zach Brown, OLB, North Carolina (6-1, 244); 3 - Mike Martin, DT, Michigan (6-2, 306); 4 - Coty Sensabaugh, CB, Clemson (5-11, 189); 5 - Taylor Thompson, TE, Southern Methodist (6-6, 259); 6 - Markelle Martin, S, Oklahoma State (6-1, 207); 7 - Scott Solomon, DE, Rice (6-3, 262)

Top Picks Analysis: The Titans were believed to be leaning towards defense or the offensive line with their first-round pick, but the team switched gears by nabbing Wright, Robert Griffin's favorite target at Baylor. The former basketball player is an exceptionally quick and slippery receiver with impressive toughness as well, though a lack of preferred size and strength may limit him to the slot in the pros. Speed is also one of Brown's best assets, with the second-round choice setting a school record in the 60-meter dash while a member of the North Carolina track team, but suspect instincts and a passive demeanor in run support caused his stock to slip. Conversely, Martin competes with a relentless motor to go along with superior weight-room strength and solid quickness. He's similar to Titans' 2011 third-rounder Jurrell Casey, a 15-game starter as rookie, and will likely rotate with his new teammate this coming season.

Best Value Pick: Sensabaugh only started one season at Clemson, but ran a sub-4.4 time in the 40-yard dash at the combine and has shown a feel for playing zone coverage. He could get an opportunity in nickel packages right away.

Questionable Calls: It's surprising that the Titans didn't draft a center or guard to aid one of the league's most anemic rushing attacks in 2011. The club did sign veteran Steve Hutchinson in free agency, but it's unclear if the seven-time Pro Bowler can reclaim his once-dominant form after battling injuries. Tennessee had a need for a pass-rushing presence at defensive tackle, but Martin's not dynamic in that department.

Summary: The Titans got a lot faster on defense with the additions of Brown and Sensabaugh, but Wright is the only member of a group comprised predominantly of projects that appears to have a better than average chance to be a definitive difference-maker.

FINAL GRADE: C