Tennessee’s path to the promised land of January football just became a little clearer with the signing of free agent wide receiver Eric Decker.
Decker split his seven-year NFL career both in Mile High and the Big Apple, having three 1,000 yard seasons with 10+ touchdowns to his name. He contributed 1,288 yards to the high-octane offense of the 2013 Denver Broncos, charting as one of the most prolific offensive teams ever put together.
Now at age 30 and coming off of a season-ending injury, Decker will provide a new role for Tennessee. A capable veteran to shoulder the pressure off of newly acquired rookie receiver Corey Davis. With Davis and Decker opposite of Marcus Mariota, while Rishard Matthews slides in the slot and Delanie Walker lines up at the line, this is a passing attack that no one will continue to sleep on.
Not to mention Tennessee hosts arguably the best offensive line in football according to Pro Football Focus. Led by Jack Conklin and Taylor Lewan, no one has been able to crack this setup. The potent running back duo of DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry looks to glide seamlessly through defenses once again. Murray, a 2016 Comeback Player of the Year finalist, almost hit 1,300 rushing yards last season.
This is an offense that can hit and punch at all angles with plenty of counters and adaptability. With a healthy Mariota, these Titans are hot out of the oven and ready to excel in the modern NFL.
Tennessee is poised to make a run for the AFC South crown after finishing 2-14 in 2014. Jacksonville continues to freefall in mediocrity despite their ever-growing list of potential talent. The Texans have everything in place except a franchise quarterback while the Colts have nothing but a franchise gunslinger. Tennessee boasts the most stable and well-rounded roster of the bunch.
Postseason football is on the horizon for Tennessee for the first time since 2008. Let’s see if the chips fall into place and if they take advantage.