Analyzing Wesley Woodyard to the Tennessee Titans

By Matt Johnson on Friday, March 14th 2014
Analyzing Wesley Woodyard to the Tennessee Titans

When the Titans named Ray Horton their new defensive coordinator, it signaled a change to the 3-4 defense and a new offseason strategy for the Titans. Horton is an outstanding defensive coordinator and now is putting the pieces together for his new defense.

Tennessee made their first big move of the offseason when they signed linebacker Wesley Woodyard to a four-year, $16 million deal. The 27-year-old linebacker spent the past six seasons with the Broncos 4-3 defense and now will make the switch to the 3-4.

Woodyard had an up and down season in 2013. While he posted 84 tackles, 1.5 sacks and three forced fumbles last season, he battled a neck injury throughout the year and was able to play through it at most times, missing two games.

In 2012, Woodyard was fantastic with career-highs in tackles (117), sacks (5.5), interceptions (three) and pass deflections (six).

Now Woodyard arrives to a Titans team where he can compete for the starting job, but likely will serve in a variety of roles in Horton’s defense. Woodyard can play special teams, in nickel defenses or really anywhere the defense needs him. Tennessee finished 11th against the pass last season, but struggled versus the run ranking 20th, giving up more than 110 yards per game. Improving the front-seven is a great start to improving this defense and being more tenacious against the running game.

What makes Woodyard stand out as a utility linebacker who brings a lot of speed, which fits in perfectly with the Titans current linebacker group. He will also provide a positive presence in the locker room with his work ethic and knowledge of the game. Things that many of the Titans young, inexperienced players can learn from.

Tennessee holds the 11th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft and can continue focusing their efforts on building their 3-4 defense. The team could upgrade in the secondary, especially with the loss of cornerback Alterraun Verner and can find a better safety. The Titans also should continue to build the defensive line and improve on their 36 sacks from last season.

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