After a disappointing 2024 season, the Tennessee Titans are beginning their offseason by setting out to retool their roster and improve on their miserable 3-14 record.
All was not lost last season. Some players over-performed expectations and have received recognition from outside the organization for their efforts. Others, however, have gone relatively unnoticed for their role in 2024.
Kevin Patra from NFL.com decided to break down the unsung heroes for every AFC team in his review and selected a player that far exceeded expectations.
Tennessee Titans – WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine
The Titans had 22 total receiving touchdowns in 2024. Westbrook-Ikhine had nine of them. For a team that struggled to put up points for much of the season, the 27-year-old wideout brought the pop, setting career highs in yards (497) and TDs while generating 15.5 yards per catch. Of his 32 receptions, 19 went for 10-plus yards with four going for over 20 yards. His 98-yard TD was the longest catch from scrimmage in the league in 2024. Titans QBs earned a 99.8 passer rating when targeting NWI, tops among Tennessee receivers. The free agent-to-be ensured he’ll find a role in 2025, whether it’s in Tennessee or elsewhere.
Westbrook-Ikhine had almost no role early in the season as the Titans’ offense struggled. It wasn’t until after the trade that sent wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to the Kansas City Chiefs that he took off. From there, the five-year veteran had a breakout season and proved to be a reliable target for whoever was at the helm.
While he isn’t the most dynamic receiver, he is consistent and can find ways to get open. The Titans definitely need help at the position, and bringing him back is a step in that direction. He finished the year with 32 receptions for 497 yards and nine touchdowns.
