During the Tennessee Titans’ preseason matchup against the Falcons on Saturday, rookie quarterback Cam Ward experienced a crucial moment when veteran wide receiver Van Jefferson dropped an important 53-yard pass. The miss denied Ward a potential first professional passing touchdown and added to uncertainties about the Titans’ receiver corps.
Jefferson’s drop came early in the game and altered the momentum, as a successful reception could have set up a significant scoring opportunity for the rookie quarterback. Shortly after, <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL insider Marcus Mosher suggested the Titans may look to strengthen their wide receiver group by pursuing George Pickens in the next offseason, potentially offering him a substantial contract.
“I’ve been joking about it on the pod but I can 100% see the Titans throwing a huge bag on George Pickens next offseason,” Mosher wrote.
Rookie Quarterback Cam Ward Expresses Confidence in Titans’ Receiving Group
Before Saturday’s game, Cam Ward expressed strong optimism about the Titans’ wide receiver roster. At a press conference on Wednesday, he ranked the group among the league’s top five, emphasizing his belief in their ability to make plays when given the opportunity.
“I think honestly, I have top five receiver corps in the NFL, including the young guys who make plays,” Ward said. “It’s really all about just us, or myself, putting the ball in their frame and letting them make the play. But then it is also those guys being aggressive and making plays for the team.”
The Titans’ offseason additions included Tyler Lockett, Van Jefferson, and James Proche II, with Calvin Ridley as the sole returning veteran receiver. Additionally, the team’s recent draft selections, Chimere Dike and Eric Ayomanor, are expected to contribute as Ward’s supporting cast during his debut campaign.
George Pickens Trade and Potential Impact on Titans
George Pickens began his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, spending three seasons with the team before being traded to the Dallas Cowboys in May in exchange for future draft picks. Despite the trade, Pickens has not yet played for Dallas after being benched in their latest game against the Los Angeles Rams, coached by Brian Schottenheimer.
Van Jefferson, who was Pickens’ teammate last season with the Steelers, signed a one-year contract with the Titans in March worth $2.5 million. In his previous season, Jefferson accumulated 276 receiving yards and two touchdowns. The prospect of Pickens joining the Titans could add a dynamic element to their receiving options as they look to improve on previous shortcomings.
Implications for the Titans’ Offense Moving Forward
The drop by Van Jefferson highlighted ongoing concerns within the Titans’ receiving unit, which Ward insists is capable yet still proving itself during the preseason. The possibility of adding George Pickens in the coming offseason could signal a significant shift in the team’s strategy to bolster offensive firepower.
With rookie wide receivers still developing and veterans like Jefferson adjusting to new roles, the Titans face a critical period in ensuring their offense can consistently deliver. How the team addresses these challenges will likely influence their competitiveness throughout the season and beyond.