Andre Dillard's powerful reaction to signing with the Titans
Tennessee Titans left tackle Andre Dillard has emotional reaction to his new opportunity in Nashville.
For recently signed Tennessee Titans left tackle Andre Dillard, his new opportunity in Nashville marks more than just another free agent signing. It's a fresh start to a career that is yet to reach its full potential.
Dillard was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 22nd overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and played in every game for Philly during his rookie season. But after a strong rookie campaign, the 27-year-old Dillard has been plagued by injuries in every year since.
During training camp the following year, Dillard tore a muscle in his bicep, which would sideline him for the entire 2020 season. Meanwhile, 2018 seventh-round pick Jordan Mailata took advantage of his opportunity to play, establishing himself as one of the most consistent left tackles in the league and earning himself a four-year, $64 million contract extension.
For his final two seasons in Philadelphia, Dillard was stuck behind two of the game's best tackles in Mailata and Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson.
While Dillard got some opportunity and was productive as an injury replacement in 2021, his 2022 season was another one highlighted by adversity. While the Eagles took flight as one of the NFL's best up-and-coming franchises, Dillard battled through a fractured forearm and the frustration of waiting for his chance to prove himself.
Dillard played just 37 offensive snaps for the 2022 Eagles, and only registered five special teams snaps in their 38-35 Super Bowl LVII loss against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Things are now beginning to turn around for the former Washington State Cougar. Dillard joins the Titans on three-year, $29 million contract that will give him an opportunity to reach his first-round potential, likely as Tennessee's starting left tackle.
Dillard's emotional reaction to his new opportunity is must-see for every Titans fan:
"One hundred percent. I'm beyond grateful for this entire opportunity," Dillard said when asked if this was what he needed to showcase his full abilities. "The emotions I've felt pretty much well surpassed what I felt when my name was called at the draft. It was a very emotional time for me," a choked up Dillard told Titans media.
Dillard's eyes are set on Tennessee's starting left tackle job, and it's safe to assume he will have every opportunity to earn that role when camp begins in August.
The Titans are still a candidate to land a top tackle in the 2023 NFL Draft this April, in which case, Dillard could have some more competition on his hands. But even in that scenario, his new contract with the Titans makes Dillard a lock for a starting spot somewhere on the Week 1 offensive line.
Let the Andre Dillard era begin.
Image via Tennessee Titans on YouTube
