The selection of East Carolina RB Chris Johnson was one of the major surprises of Round One, perhaps only trumped by Houston’s selection of Virginia Tech OLT Duane Brown. Clocked at 4.29 in the 40, Johnson is the fastest back in this draft class. He catches the ball well and is dangerous in space. He figures to contribute immediately as a kickoff returner and also could push Chris Henry to be the backup to LenDale White. Don’t be surprised if offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger works to get the ball in Johnson’s hands in a variety of ways. However, Johnson comes with major durability concerns: he runs upright, and he dips his head on contact. He is not physical, and he may never be more than a part-time player. This is the third straight year the Titans have spent a first-day selection on a running back. In Round Two, the Titans drafted Eastern Michigan’s Jason Jones, who will compete for time at left defensive end and as a pass-rushing defensive tackle on third downs. Jones has exceptionally long arms and very good quickness when the ball is snapped. With some work in the weight room and the guidance of DL coach Jim Washburn, Jones could become a fine starter. California’s Craig Stevens is an excellent blocker who could immediately contribute in two-TE sets. Winston Salem State DE William Hayes has very good speed for the position, but he could take some time to develop. Later in Round Four, the Titans added to their WR corps, selecting California’s Lavelle Hawkins. He’ll compete in a wide-open competition behind starters Justin Gage and Roydell Williams. Hawkins knows how to work open underneath but lacks the speed to get deep. Eight picks after selecting Hawkins, the Titans tabbed Purdue LB Stanford Keglar, whose strength and agility in Combine drills helped his draft stock. He figures to be a special-teams player for now, and he’ll need time to develop. His weight-room strength must translate better to the field, and he must be more instinctive. Washburn (Kan.) CB Cary Williams is a size-speed prospect.
