The Titans are having a good off season so far, but they took some losses along the way. One of the biggest losses was on defense when DL Denico Autry signed with AFC South rival Houston Texans. Autry had his best season as a Titan in 2023 as he recorded 50 combined tackles, 11.5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. Although his presence isn’t going to be easy to replace, there is one guy in the 2024 draft that could develop into the force Autry was throughout his career in Tennessee.
DeWayne Carter from the University of Duke is a player that fits the mold when you think about the type of player Titans DC Dennard Wilson wants on defense. Carter was a 3 year captain for Duke and has great leadership skills. He is versatile on the defensive line as Duke lined him up as the 2, 3, and 4 technique throughout the season.
Carter is a high effort player as well. Standing 6’3 300lbs, Carter may be undersized to some, but Titans fans should think back to Jurrell Casey. Casey was similar in size, but was a dominant force on the Titans defensive line for many years. Carter ended his career at Duke with 125 total tackles, 12 sacks, 11 pass defenses, 7 forced fumbles, and 2 touchdowns.
Here Carter’s scouting report per nfldraftbuzz.com
SCOUTING REPORT: STRENGTHS
- Exceptional run defender with the capability to disrupt the opposition’s ground game effectively.
- Demonstrates impressive play strength, anchoring well against the run and at the point of attack.
- Exhibits lateral agility, enabling him to effectively counter zone and outside run plays.
- Possesses a relentless motor and pursuit, showcasing his ability to chase down plays from behind.
- Skilled in employing powerful hand techniques to disengage from blockers and collapse the pocket.
- Effective as a three-down player with the potential to contribute significantly in various defensive schemes.
- Utilizes a potent bull rush, demonstrating the ability to overpower and displace offensive linemen.
- Leadership and on-field IQ stand out, with Carter’s role as a team captain highlighting his intangible qualities.
SCOUTING REPORT: WEAKNESSES
- Limited sack production, indicating a need to enhance his pass-rush repertoire and finish.
- Arm length and hand placement sometimes hinder his ability to engage and shed blockers swiftly.
- Occasionally struggles with snap reaction and anticipation, particularly against lateral movements.
- Needs improvement in tackling efficiency to reduce missed opportunities and secure stops.
- Inconsistent hand usage in pass rush, affecting his ability to consistently disrupt the quarterback.
In a division with multiple mobile quarterbacks, the Titans need someone with the ability to be disruptive against the run and pass. Carter might not have eye popping stats, but his film shows that he does his job on the field. Carter is projected to be an early day 3 pick. He should be able to come in and be a contributor as a rotational defensive lineman, but has the upside to become a full time starter.
