The 2013-14 Tennessee Titans football season officially kicks off a week from today. We've taken a look at the receivers, running backs, and defense. Our series will conclude today with the quarterback position.
If judged purely by draft status, then Jake Locker...8th overall pick in the 2011 draft...has been a bust. There were questions about Locker's accuracy (54%) coming out of the University of Washington.
It hasn't improved by the way...but you can't knock the Titans selection for three reasons.
1. With the departure of Vince Young, Tennessee desperately needed a qb.
2. Cam Newton was already selected with the number 1 pick.
3. From what we've seen, QB's Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder (taken 10th and 12th) would've done no better.
Former NFL qb and current ESPN analysis Ron Jaworski ranked Locker 31st out of 32 projected starters for the upcoming season. And for good reason.
Locker was the only rookie qb that had to sit behind a veteran in 2011. First time head coach Mike Munchak took the conservative approach, electing to go with "way past his prime" veteran Matt Hasselbeck. Locker won the job entering the 2012 season, but missed five games with a shoulder injury. A blown assignment and missed block (by the same offensive lineman believe it or not) lead to the crushing blow that sidelined Locker. In fact, Jake was sacked 25 times in 10 and a half games.
You do the math.
Sure, Locker didn't have much time to throw, but when he did...more bad things happened than good...to the tune of 10 td's and 11 interceptions.
Ouch.
Locker did show flashes of potential when healthy, but never had a fighting chance with a mediocre running game, bad offensive line, and terrible defense. Credit Tennessee for going after offensive weapons for Locker this off season. The wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, and running back positions have all been upgraded (on paper), so there is no more excuses for Jake.
Locker and coach Munchak are playing for their jobs now. Big Bud (Adams) has already said playoffs or pink slips. Titans fans can only hope that desperation leads to a hungrier and more disciplined team in 2013. And that starts and ends with Jake Locker.
Seven more days until training camp. Welcome back NFL. follow @plcolter
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