The defensive end from Georgia Tech, Derrick Morgan, who was most scouts' top defensive end prospect, fell through the grasp of Jacksonville, Seattle and New York - three teams that needed pass rush help - before being caught by the Tennessee Titans with the 16th overall pick.
With defensive end and cornerback being the biggest positions of need for Tennessee, I was thrilled when the three aforementioned teams passed on Morgan for other needs they had. I had Morgan as my biggest (realistic) want in the draft and couldn't be happier when the Titans chose him.
Getting away from my thoughts about the pick, let's look into what Morgan brings to Tennessee. At 6'4" and tipping the scales at 270 pounds, he is a very strong player who has a great first step off the line. His variety of moves can confuse the opposing offensive tackle and his motor is outstanding.
There's really not that many negatives about Morgan. He doesn't drop into zone coverage that well, has inconsistent counter moves and lacks a little agility. With all of that being said, the Titans are pretty much getting a NFL-ready defensive end that could start from day one.
Morgan doesn't have the boom/bust potential like Jason Pierre-Paul did; a player that the Titans were rumored to be in love with. If Jim Washburn - arguably the best defensive line coach in the league - can get production from Jacob Ford (5.5 sacks as a situational pass rusher), there's no doubt in my mind that Morgan's going to be a great player for years to come.
Derrick Morgan, welcome to Tennessee big fella.
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