Tennessee Titans WR Elic Ayomanor Dusts Bucs Defense

Tennessee Titans rookie wide receiver Elic Ayomanor turned heads during a joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, showcasing the skills that could make him a key contributor in his debut NFL season in Nashville. Ayomanor dominated Buccaneers defenders in one-on-one drills and team periods, repeatedly creating separation and hauling in passes from quarterback Cam Ward.

The Titans rookie exploited mismatches with his 6-foot-2 frame and 4.44-second 40-yard dash speed, turning short routes into significant gains and winning contested catches downfield. Titans coaches praised his physicality, as he blocked effectively and maintained composure against veteran cornerbacks. The performance built on his strong showing in training camp, where he emerged as a reliable target in a revamped offense.

The Titans selected Ayomanor in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the 136th overall pick, after he starred at Stanford. There, he amassed 125 receptions for 1,844 yards and 12 touchdowns over two seasons, leading the Cardinal in receiving both years despite inconsistent quarterback play. His standout game came against Colorado in 2023, when he racked up a school-record 294 yards and three scores, outdueling top prospect Travis Hunter. Ayomanor overcame early knee injuries, including a torn ACL, to build a reputation as a durable, high-point specialist with a large catch radius.

In Tennessee, Ayomanor joins a receiving corps led by veterans Calvin Ridley and Tyler Lockett, but he competes for the No. 3 spot alongside Van Jefferson and fellow rookie Chimere Dike. His chemistry with Ward, the No. 1 overall pick, stands out—Ward delivers the ball quickly and accurately, allowing Ayomanor to leverage his route-running precision. During the joint session, the duo connected on several deep balls, hinting at a developing rapport that could accelerate Ayomanor’s integration.

Analysts view Ayomanor as a sleeper with immediate upside. His blocking prowess fits head coach Brian Callahan’s scheme, which emphasizes versatile receivers in a pass-heavy attack. While Ridley handles the primary targets, Ayomanor could carve out 50-60 receptions if he secures consistent snaps. Fantasy experts project him as a third-round dynasty pick, with potential for 800-1,000 yards and 6-8 touchdowns in a breakout rookie year, especially if injuries open opportunities.

Challenges remain. Ayomanor must refine his hands, as occasional drops plagued his college tape, and adapt to NFL physicality. Yet his work ethic shines through; he interned in private equity during college and approaches football with a business-like mindset. Born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, and raised in a tiny Canadian town, Ayomanor relocated to U.S. boarding schools to chase his dream, embodying resilience.