The Tennessee Titans' tight end dynamic will be worth monitoring throughout training camp and the preseason. Players have staked an early claim over the team's offseason program. Clues are starting to emerge, but everything should become clearer when training camp rolls around.
Chig Okonkwo projects as the primary pass-catching tight end. The Titans also have Josh Whyle, a third-year versatile pro, in a notable role. First-year general manager Mike Borgonzi altered the dynamics of the room when he drafted former Texas tight end Gunnar Helm in the fourth round.
Okonkwo is entering a contract year and has generally been a slow starter throughout his career. Whyle was expected to take a bigger step forward in 2024. Despite appearing in all 17 regular-season games, he was limited to 28 receptions for 248 yards and one touchdown. Whyle has also suffered multiple injuries throughout his short career.
Helm possesses big ambitions to impact the rotation immediately. His outstanding size, in-line blocking ability, and open-field athleticism gained him rave reviews at OTAs and minicamp. There's a long way to go, but the signs are extremely promising nonetheless.
Josh Whyle faces a fight to retain role on 2025 Titans
Whyle has been a useful player for the Titans. He earned 345 snaps last season, accounting for 31.54 percent of Brian Callahan's offensive plays. That trailed both Okonkwo (665) and veteran Nick Vannett (399). Vannett wasn't retained this offseason, but Helm was drafted as a higher-upside replacement.
Helm was among the most reliable tight end prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Combing through his tape showed recurring flashes of open-field athleticism. He's already been displaying signs of budding chemistry with rookie quarterback Cam Ward.
Helm was a sure-handed weapon for the Longhorns this past campaign. Despite having a wide receiver drafted in the first round (Matthew Golden), it was Helm who led Texas in receptions last season with 60. The Englewood, Colorado native also showcased an ability to utilize his 6-foot-5, 241-pound frame to be an effective blocker.
The Titans will afford Helm opportunities to impact their offense, especially if he continuously stacks impressive practices at training camp. There's competition for snaps in the tight end room. It's a straight battle between Helm and Whyle for TE2, with Okonkwo's spot also within reach.
Whyle won't forfeit his positioning without a valiant effort. But to say his situation is precarious would be an understatement.
