Tennessee Titans see TE Taylor Thompson long-term asset to offence – NFL News
The Tennessee Titans aim to groom tight end, Taylor Thompson, in the longer run with a hope he will bolster their offence.
Taylor was taken on board by Titans during fifth round of the draft this year but since arriving in Tennessee he is converted from defensive end to tight end.
Now the team sees him to be a regular part of the squad on the same position provided he continues to develop in the longer run.
As a matter of fact, some of Titans project him to be the next New England Patriots’ tight end, Rob Gronkowski, who, like Taylor, was in rough during early days of his pro career.
Rob despite being an elite player was selected down at 41st position. He lately has been rated to be a far better player in comparison with his draft selection.
Although commentators are cautious to buy into the comparative projection of Thompson, they agree with the similarity of the circumstances of the two players.
Sporting News in its analysis of the late arrivals of the 2012 draft has listed a number of players who could become risers as the season progresses.
The view is that they have potential to become next Gronkowski and it is not necessary that their selection deep down in the draft represents their talent or potential to develop.
This includes Thompson. The report mentions that the TE has shown great promise during early offseason workout activity of the team. His performance is particularly impressive given the fact that he has played as defensive end during his
college leaguer career and the TE position is completely new to him.
Further, SN has cited anonymous sources disclosing:
“Thompson showed elite athleticism similar to New England Patriots star Rob Gronkowski. The Titans believe Thompson could become a dynamic offensive player and be special in the long term if he continues to develop.”
Titans’ coach, Mike Munchak, will particularly be pleased if the player turns out to be as effective as Gronkowski with the passage of time. It will be down to him how quickly he learns and adds to his professional career.
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