NFL Draft: Cedric Gray’s Fit With the Tennesee Titans

As my THB colleague Matt Ferenchick noted in his earlier news regarding Cedric Gray being drafted in the 4th round and 106th overall, the four-year Tar Heel linebacker was a shining star in a dark abyss that was Gene Chizik’s UNC defense. Every time a defensive play was made, you could always expect to see #33 either involved or very nearby with his uncanny ability to fly around the field and his magnetic attraction to the football.

Cedric led all of Power 5 with 279 tackles over his junior and senior seasons.

The 6’2, 234-pound inside linebacker will stay in light blue as he joins the Tennessee Titans, coming off of a disappointing 6-11 season. After firing Mike Vrabel, the Titans have hired a new young head coach in Brian Callahan (previously the OC for the Cincinnati Bengals) along with first-time defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson, who has said he plans to implement an “attacking” defense.

Gray brings a skill set and determination that could make him an invaluable asset to the Titans’ linebacking core, filling one of their top five needs according to ESPN, which currently has Cedric as the #2 LILB on the Titans’ depth chart.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Gray’s game is his versatility. During his time at UNC, Gray showcased his ability to excel in various defensive roles, ranging from playing in coverage as a linebacker (five INT’s, 18 passes defended) to stepping up against the run and even rushing the passer when needed (8.5 career sacks). This versatility is particularly valuable in today’s NFL, where offenses are becoming increasingly dynamic and unpredictable.

In addition to his versatility, Gray possesses a high football IQ and exceptional instincts on the field. He has a knack for reading plays and reacting quickly, allowing him to make impactful plays and disrupt opposing offenses. His awareness and anticipation make him a reliable presence in both pass coverage and run defense, two areas where the Titans could certainly use a boost.

Furthermore, Gray’s work ethic and dedication to his craft are second to none. Throughout his collegiate career, he consistently demonstrated a willingness to put in the extra work to improve his game, both on and off the field. This relentless drive to succeed, coupled with his natural talent, bodes well for his transition to the NFL and his potential impact with the Titans.

But perhaps what makes Gray such a perfect fit for the Titans is his character and leadership qualities. Known for his humility and team-first mentality, Gray is the type of player who leads by example and earns the respect of his teammates through his actions. His leadership both on and off the field will undoubtedly be an asset to the Titans as they strive for success in the upcoming season.

Cedric Gray’s arrival in Tennessee represents a significant addition to the Titans’ defense, who were ranked 16th in the NFL in scoring defense last season. With his versatility, football IQ, work ethic, and leadership qualities, Gray has all the makings of a standout player at the NFL level. Titans fans should be excited about what the future holds with Cedric Gray in the fold, as he has the potential to make a lasting impact on the team’s quest for glory.