NASHVILLE, Tenn. —Armed with a pair of first-round picks, the Titans are in a good position heading into this year's draft, NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock said on Monday.
Mayock, speaking on a conference call, was asked about his best-case scenario for the Titans, who are currently scheduled to pick fifth overall and the 18th overall in April's NFL Draft.
He said the Titans have plenty of options.
"I think it sets up well for them," Mayock said of the Titans. "As a matter of fact, you could almost clean up that secondary at 5 and 18. And there is a good chance you could get one of those two quality safeties at No.5 – either (Ohio State's) Malik Hooker or (LSU's) Jamal Adams, both of whom I'm bullish on.
"And you've got to kind of figure out who you'd like to pair with (Kevin) Byard. They are both potential All-Pro safeties and then I think you come back at 18 and take a look at wide out or a corner."
The NFL Combine begins later this week in Indianapolis.
Titans general manager Jon Robinson, coach Mike Mularkey and the team's scouting and coaching staffs will be there to observe the 300-plus prospects.
The Titans have needs at receivers, cornerback and safety in this year's draft, among other positions.
Mayock said it's the best defensive draft he's seen in years, loaded with edge rushers, cornerbacks and safeties.
Then he rolled off a number of names – and positions – that could be in play for the Titans at No.18. Robinson, of course, has already mentioned the possibility of a trade again this year as well.
"Depending on what is sitting there (at 18), the wide receiver situation, I think there are three potential guys in (Western Michigan's) Corey Davis, John Ross, who just absolutely flies from the University of Washington, and Mike Williams from Clemson. And I think they are three different type players and I think it just depends on what you are looking for," Mayock said. "And then as far as the corner situation is concerned, this is a great corner class. And if you don't get one in the first round, then you can get one in the second or third round and really help yourself. But if you are looking at 18, I think (Washington's) Sidney Jones and (Ohio State's) Marshon Lattimore are gone by then.
"If Sidney Jones is sitting there, I'd jump all over him. … But I think you are starting to look at Marlon Humphrey from Alabama, how fast does Teez Tabor run from Florida? Quincy Wilson from Florida. (USC's) Adoree' Jackson I think is more of a second-round guy, but his talent is through the roof.
"I think at 5 and 18, Tennessee can really help themselves regardless of what direction they go in."
