NASHVILLE – The Titans selected tackle JC Latham in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Latham was a dominant player at the University of Alabama, where he played on the right side of the offensive line.
With the Titans, he's expected to start his NFL journey on the left side, at tackle.
Here's what folks are saying about Latham, who will report to Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park for rookie minicamp next weekend:
Brian Baldinger, NFL Network: "First of all, he is a human eclipse. We just had the solar eclipse a few weeks ago, and he is the human eclipse. He has good feet, and he has massive power. And, oh by the way, the new offensive line coach (in Tennessee) is Bill Callahan. So, I hear he's already working on him, to work at left tackle, work on his footwork. We'll see. Maybe he's the right tackle at Tennessee? He has that ability. But this is just a guy who has played at a very high level at Alabama, the best of the best, week in and week out. And he moves other big bodies, and that's kind of what you have to do at the tackle position. Tennessee is trying to get back to where they were a few years ago where they had a really good offensive line. It started last year with Peter Skoronski, and now they have JC Latham. Bill Callahan will coach them all up. It is a good start."
Nick Saban, former Alabama coach: "JC played great ball for us. He was a leader on our team. But you talk about being physical and dominate the line of scrimmage, I mean, this guy is as powerful as anybody as we've ever had. When he gets his hands on you, you've had it. If you look at his game … and the emotional maturity, being consistent in performance and staying focused, not getting penalties. This guy's powerful, he was a really good pass (protection) guy. … I'm telling you, if you want to be a trendsetter, this guy will set the trend for you of being a physical football team on the line. … And a fine young man. Really, everybody on the team loves the guy. I am so happy for him and his family."
Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Network: "The Tennessee Titans, this was a glaring need for them. Will Levis needs some help, needs some protection. They were tied for 28th in sacks allowed last year. Latham is a mammoth human being. He played at right tackle (at Alabama), has also played inside at guard. I believe he'll be a left tackle in the NFL. The upside with him, and what he can become, a big-time recruit, a big-time talent, and I think there's still more there for him. … When you look at Latham and watch him at Alabama, there is so much power up top. The ability to work defenders, that shows up in the run game. And you're not going to get through him in pass protection, he's just too big. He uses those long arms and just toys with edge rushers. As long as he stays square, you're not going to be able to beat him. … The Tennessee Titans, this is a need they had to address."
Charles Davis, NFL Network: "Bill Callahan was the (offensive line) coach in Cleveland when they drafted Jedrick Wills out of Alabama, right tackle his college career, and they converted him to left tackle. Bill Callahan is now the offensive line coach for the Tennessee Titans, and if you're talking about converting a guy from right tackle to left tackle. I like (JC) a bunch. He's a big, strong, physical kid. He's going to make the move now under one of the best offensive line coaches in NFL history."
Mel Kiper Jr. ESPN: "You talk about a mountain of a man. He's got the longest arms of anybody you'll come across. He's got massive hands. And he will destroy you at the point of attack. This kid has to cut down on the penalties. That comes with coaching. … He played at Alabama at a high level. He was a dominant performer for Alabama, had a spectacular year. You talk about being able to run the football and be physical."
Lance Zierlein, NFL.com: "JC Latham is incredibly powerful. When you watch him on tape, though, that does not prevent him from getting out in pass setting. … What we love about it is he has strong hands, and when he gets his hands on you, you are probably not getting away. … He has the ability to deal with spin moves, he passes off twists. A lot of the (highlights) are on the passing game, but I think the run game is where he shines and this is why he was my No.1 tackle on the board, because he is an elite run blocker. He is a mauler, and he has the attitude to let you know he is there to whip you time in and time out. … I think Joe Alt (who went 5 to the Chargers) is maybe a little safer as a pass protector, but I think Latham is just as good and I talked to some other offensive line coaches who had Latham just ahead of Alt, but it is close. They are both excellent tackles."
Bucky Brooks, NFL.com: "To me, this is Ran Carthon putting his stamp on the team. Knowing Ran pretty well, having watched Ran throughout his time, he is saying the Tennessee Titans are still going to play bully ball. … He is putting them in a position to have success. They can play that smash-mouth football that they want to play. Bill Callahan endorsed this pick, and JC Latham is there because the offensive line coach is saying, 'We want to dominate at the point of attack."
Louis Riddick, ESPN: "I wish I could show you my notes from my iPad but it's not suitable for network TV. This guy was an absolute monster. When he put his hands on you, it was over. Unbelievable athlete."
