TRAINING CAMP PREVIEW: TIGHT ENDS
In camp (6): Daniel Bellinger, Kylen Granson, Gunnar Helm, Jaren Kanak, David Martin-Robinson, Joel Wilson.
Player to watch: Daniel Bellinger. The Titans signed Bellinger back in March after he recorded 88 catches for 934 yards and four touchdowns in his first four NFL seasons with the Giants. Bellinger's experience, and familiarity with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll's offense, should put him in a position to be successful right out of the gate in Tennessee. We may get more clues about Bellinger's potential impact in camp.
What I've seen so far: Bellinger impressed in offseason work, catching 10 passes in the open workouts. He's big, but he runs well and is versatile. The same can be said for Helm, who also caught 10 balls and looked more comfortable with a year under his belt. Granson, who joined the Titans after playing previously with the Eagles and Colts, was the third Titans tight end to catch 10 balls this offseason. He impressed me with his receiving skills. Meanwhile, seventh-round pick Jaren Kanak showed he can run while catching eight balls himself. Like Kanak, Martin-Robinson caught eight passes while I logged Wilson with four. With tight ends coach Luke Stocker guiding them, this group looked solid.
What I think the Titans need to see in camp: Those who watched offseason practices concluded the tight ends are going to catch a lot of passes this season, and with Bellinger and Helm the Titans have a talented twosome. The team wants to see these guys perform well in camp. The hunch here is four tight ends will make the 53-man roster, so the competition for the extra spots will be interesting to watch. Granson's receiving skills and ability to help on special teams help his cause, but DMR has stuck around for a few years for a reason, and the Titans want him to keep improving. Kanak's athleticism could be a special teams plus as well, but the rookie will have to prove he can be a trusted asset early.
Next up: Offensive line.
