How one Titans rookie is standing out to his coaches
Tennessee Titans rookie running back Hassan Haskins has been standing out to his coaches with his recent performance. After a strong showing in the Titans preseason opener against Baltimore, it's safe to say that Haskins' stock is on the rise. Haskins had three catches for 29 receiving yards out of the backfield. He also had […]
Tennessee Titans rookie running back Hassan Haskins has been standing out to his coaches with his recent performance.
After a strong showing in the Titans preseason opener against Baltimore, it's safe to say that Haskins' stock is on the rise.
Haskins had three catches for 29 receiving yards out of the backfield. He also had a 14-yard reception called back because of an offensive pass interference on TE Briley Moore. The former Michigan Wolverine also had an impact on special teams.
Titans coaches are taking notice too.
When Titans offensive coordinator Todd Downing spoke to the media on Sunday, he said many of the offensive rookies needed to be "more consistent".
Downing, however, was nothing but positive when reflecting on Haskins' performance. According to Downing, Haskins' ability to block in pass protection was not only impressive, but also made it easier to get him the ball in space:
He's showing a dependability in protection," Downing said. "He wasn't eaten up on blocks very much so he was able to get out quickly for the check downs…Did a nice job after the catch…I thought he ran tough."
Being able to block has always been important to the Titans when it comes to their running backs.
And while has Haskins been able to demonstrate ability and dependability in that phase of his game, he's also impacted another side of he ball with his play on special teams.
I spoke with Haskins after practice on Sunday to discuss his preseason debut and transition to new roles in the NFL.
With Derrick Henry and Dontrell Hilliard ahead of him on the depth chart, it's still unclear what role Haskins could have in the Titans offense. That said, he's quickly forcing his way into more opportunity.
In the case of another extended injury absence from Henry, the Titans now have an additional insurance policy with huge upside.
If he continues improving and shows out in joint practices this week, he may be in for an even heavier dose of action against Tampa Bay.
There may be a long way to go, but Haskins is trending towards NFL success, and it starts with his ability to do the little things.
Image via George Walker IV / Tennessean.com-USA TODAY NETWORK
