By BLAKE BEDDINGFIELD, special correspondent
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Titans tried to piece together the tight end position last year with a committee of Anthony Firkser, Geoff Swaim and McCole Pruitt. But the collective group wasn’t enough to give the Titans a true threat at the spot.
In the Titans' offense, the tight ends play a crucial role and must be capable run blockers, pass protectors and also receivers who can supplement wide receiver A.J. Brown and running back Derrick Henry.
Washington tight end Cade Otton/ courtesy Washington athletics
The Titans signed Austin Hooper in free agency, formerly of the Cleveland Browns and the Atlanta Falcons. Hooper is a dual-role tight end who can upgrade what the team was trying to accomplish with three last year.
Hooper has had success as a short-to-intermediate receiver and is also a capable in-line blocker.