We haven’t exactly gotten a clear view of the Tennessee Titans’ highly drafted rookies in 2019.
Between defensive end Jeffery Simmons, wide receiver A.J. Brown and offensive lineman Nate Davis all recovering from injuries recently, other lesser-known and late-round players have had an opportunity to shine.
One player who has made himself noticed regardless is safety Amani Hooker.
The Titans selected Hooker at No. 116 overall in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Hooker has looked good this training camp, seeing reps with the first team. Because of his versatility and other qualities he brings to Dean Pees’ defense, it’s not surprising he made Touchdown Wire’s list of most intriguing late-round rookies to watch in the 2019 NFL preseason.
Here’s a look at what analyst Doug Farrar had to say.
Tennessee’s safety rotation is already impressive enough with Kevin Byard and Kenny Vaccaro, but the addition of Iowa alum Hooker in the fourth round gives Mike Vrabel’s defense even more versatility,” he wrote. “With Hooker defending the intermediate passing game and slamming down on run fits, Byard can cover the deep third as he does, and Vaccaro can maintain his status as the versatile slot-to-safety defender. If you see the Titans deciphering opposing offenses with a lot of “big nickel” (three-safety) sets, Hooker may be the reason why.”
Hooker will get his first chance to show what he can do on an NFL field when the Titans make their 2019 preseason debut on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. CT against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.
