In a league full of star cornerbacks, Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson believes one player stands above the rest: L’Jarius Sneed. During a press conference today with Titans media, Wilson praised Sneed, stating his belief that the 26-year-old is the premier corner in the NFL.
“Sometimes I don’t think he gets the respect he deserves,” Wilson said. “I think he’s the best cornerback in the league. He doesn’t back down from any challenge. He attacks every rep in practice like it’s a game. As a coach, it’s a pleasure to coach him.”
Despite the high praise from Wilson, Pro Football Focus (PFF) doesn’t seem to agree. Sneed’s PFF grade sits at a low 43.0, sparking some debate about his actual effectiveness on the field. However, Wilson’s endorsement isn’t based on analytics alone. While Sneed’s grades may be lacking, his on-field performance, especially in limiting opposing wide receivers, tells a different story.
In Week 1 against the Chicago Bears, Sneed and the Titans secondary held Keenan Allen and DJ Moore to a combined nine receptions for just 65 yards and no touchdowns. While Moore has gained a reputation as a deep threat, and Allen is one of the best route runners in the game, neither was able to break free from the Titans’ coverage, particularly under Sneed’s watch.
The following week, the Titans faced the Jets, where Garrett Wilson was limited to just four catches for 57 yards. Again, Sneed’s coverage played a key role in making sure the Jets’ top receiver couldn’t find the end zone.
Week 3 was a different story, however. The Titans secondary, including Sneed, had their most difficult outing of the season against Green Bay. Former Titans quarterback Malik Willis led the Packers to a breakout passing game, with Green Bay’s wide receivers combining for 13 catches, 202 yards, and a touchdown. This performance, while an outlier for Sneed, raised questions about the Titans’ consistency in the secondary.
The Titans rebounded quickly in Week 4 against the Miami Dolphins with Tyler Huntley at quarterback. Sneed played a significant role in shutting down one of the NFL’s most dangerous weapons, Tyreek Hill. Hill, known for his speed and game-breaking ability, was held to just four catches for 23 yards and no touchdowns. Limiting Hill to such minimal production further solidified Wilson’s stance that Sneed is one of the most effective cornerbacks in the game.
One of the criticisms surrounding Sneed is his lack of turnovers. He hasn’t created any interceptions or forced fumbles this season, which is a key metric by which many evaluate a cornerback’s success. Sneed himself has acknowledged this shortcoming and has been openly critical of his own performance. Yet, his teammates and coaches, especially Wilson, remain firm in their belief that he’s fulfilling his responsibilities effectively.
While turnovers may be the missing piece, Sneed’s ability to consistently keep top-tier wide receivers in check should not go unnoticed. Dennard Wilson’s assessment that Sneed is the best cornerback in the league may not be reflected in his PFF grade, but on the field, his impact is undeniable.
The debate will likely continue, but for now, Sneed has the support of his defensive coordinator and continues to prove himself against some of the NFL’s best wide receivers. Whether the analytics community comes around to Wilson’s view remains to be seen, but Sneed’s value to the Titans’ defense is clear to those who watch him every Sunday.
