The role that Dillon Radunz will play in the Tennessee Titans offense remains one of the biggest questions heading into the 2022 season.

When the Titans drafted Radunz in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, they knew they were getting a tough and strong tackle prospect with great punch off the snap. At 6’6” and 304 pounds out of college, there was a lot to like that jumped out at those watching him.

The question marks when it came to Radunz were also clear.

His foot speed and athleticism made many scouts question if he could stick at tackle or handle the speed that comes off the NFL edge. He was raw and unpolished, not an instant starter in the NFL, and would take some development before being a reliable member of the offensive line.

Radunz got a trial by fire in 2021.

Despite not earning a starting spot out of camp, injuries forced Radunz into action as a rookie. He appeared in 12 of the Titans’ 17 games (including one start), and gained experience to help build confidence approaching year two. With Rodger Saffold and David Quessenberry no longer in the picture, Radunz will once again be afforded the opportunity to earn a starting spot.

Radunz spoke to the media at Titans OTAs and shared how he is embracing the idea of competition in practice:

“We’re going to move guys around in order to push each other and earn it and wherever a guy lines up – whatever guy earns that spot, whether it’s the spot he thought he was going to take or not – that’s just the way it is going to be,” Radunz said. “The competition of earning it here is a big part of the atmosphere.”

The Titans depth chart has openings at right tackle and left guard, and while tackle has been the natural position of Radunz (who played left tackle at NDSU), some believe moving inside is the best option for Radunz’ future.

With Taylor Lewan holding down the left tackle spot, Radunz did take the majority of his OTA reps lined up at right tackle last week. As things continue throughout the offseason, Radunz is trying to approach things with an open mind, and has even poked fun at the state of limbo he finds himself in.

I play center, guard, and tackle. I sit on the center of the bench, I guard the water, and I tackle anyone who tries to steal it.

— Dillon Radunz (@DillonRadunz) May 27, 2022

Titans head coach Mike Vrabel told the media in March that he didn’t believe Radunz was ready to start in the NFL, but did say he was confident that Radunz would take coaching and improve before the season started.

Radunz acknowledged Vrabel’s comments and the many things he has to work on, but seemed motivated when it comes to improving and reaching his personal goals.

“Obviously, as a competitor, it is my goal to start. But the team is first and we’re going to make sure everybody on that starting line earns it,” Radunz said. “I just want to go out here every day and give 110 percent, follow what the coaches do, push each other, and put in the work. The mission is for the Titans to win games, and for the starting five to earn those spots.”

If all goes to plan, Radunz will be one of the players earning a starting spot. If he gets comfortable and takes a big jump in year two, it could provide a big jolt to the offense in Tennessee. Keep an eye on 75 in the trenches.

Image via George Walker IV – USA TODAY NETWORK