In the realm of the National Football League, few teams evoke as much discussion and analysis as the Tennessee Titans. With a roster filled with talent and potential, it’s no wonder that coaches, scouts, and executives across the league have their eyes on the players donning the Titans’ jersey.
This month, ESPN has been unveiling a series on the best players in the league by position, through its ESPN+ service. The rankings were determined through a polling of front-office executives, coaches, and scouts, creating a buzz among NFL enthusiasts. The rankings kicked off with running backs in early July and concluded with the cornerback position, leaving fans eager to see where their favorite Titans players would land.
Leading the charge for the Titans is none other than Jeffrey Simmons. Simmons has established himself as Tennessee’s premier defensive player for several seasons, garnering respect and recognition from his peers. In ESPN’s rankings, Simmons was recognized as the fourth-best defensive tackle, showcasing his prowess on the field. With a high ranking of second place and a low of unranked, Simmons’ talent and skill were evident to all who participated in the survey. Pro Football Focus (PFF) also acknowledged Simmons’ abilities, ranking him as the 36th-best interior defensive lineman with an overall score of 68.4.
But Simmons is not the only Titan receiving accolades from ESPN’s leaguewide rankings. Kristian Sneed, a rising star in the cornerback position, has also caught the attention of NFL insiders. Since entering the league in 2020, Sneed has been a standout performer, earning a reputation as a shutdown corner. Despite facing injury setbacks in recent seasons, Sneed’s potential is undeniable, with the ability to be a top-three player in his position when healthy. His performance during the 2024 playoff run, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance, solidified his status as a formidable force on the field.
Following a trade to the Titans in the offseason, Sneed’s ranking in ESPN’s survey fluctuated between CB1 and CB10, reflecting the varying opinions of league experts. PFF graded Sneed as the 30th-best cornerback, highlighting his consistent performance and impact on the game. Coaches from both the NFC and AFC showered praise on Sneed, acknowledging his strengths and areas for improvement.
“He can struggle with the quick, shiftier players, but with the bigger body receivers, he can dominate as a physical press corner because of his physicality, and he’s always up for the challenge,” one coach remarked, encapsulating Sneed’s unique blend of skills and tenacity on the field.
As the Titans continue to make waves in the NFL landscape, it’s clear that players like Simmons and Sneed are at the forefront of the team’s success. With their talent, dedication, and drive to be the best, these Titans are sure to leave a lasting impact on the league for seasons to come.
