ESPN Analyst Mel Kiper Jr. Projects Titans' Early Draft Picks

ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. released a two-round mock draft on Wednesday, projecting the Tennessee Titans' selections with the fourth overall pick in the first round and the 35th overall pick in the second round. Kiper stated his predictions are based on team needs, player evaluations, and conversations with NFL executives, coaches, and scouts.

First-Round Projection: Jeremiyah Love

In his projection, Kiper has the Titans selecting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love with the No. 4 overall pick in the first round.

Kiper noted that a running back has not been selected this early in the NFL Draft since Saquon Barkley was chosen second overall by the New York Giants eight years ago. He stated Love "has the goods to come off the board in the top five."

Kiper described Love as a versatile playmaker. He stated Love could contribute in the backfield with quarterback Cam Ward, break long runs, catch passes when lined up as a receiver, and gain yards after contact.

Kiper's projection is based on a scenario where the top two edge rushers in his mock draft were already selected by other teams before the Titans' pick. He suggested Love could become the primary running back in Tennessee, joining a group that includes Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, and Michael Carter.

Second-Round Projection: Malachi Lawrence

For the Titans' second-round selection, Kiper projected UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence at No. 35 overall.

Kiper stated Lawrence's draft stock has risen recently, adding, "There's certainly a chance Lawrence is off the board before Round 2."

According to Kiper, Lawrence recorded seven sacks and 14 tackles for loss last season, showcasing closing speed. Kiper noted the Titans still have a need for edge rushers despite a previous trade to acquire Jermaine Johnson.

Analyst's Methodology

Kiper stated that his mock draft predictions are formulated by evaluating team needs, assessing player talent, and incorporating insights from discussions with NFL executives, coaches, and scouts. The projections represent potential selections based on this analysis and are not official forecasts of the draft's outcome.