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AP Photo/Mark Humphrey
With Hooper locked in as the No. 1 tight end, the only things he needs to worry about aside from staying healthy are continuing to learn the playbook and building chemistry with quarterback Ryan Tannehill.
Behind Hooper, there will be a competition for the No. 2 role between Okonkwo and Swaim.
Okonkwo has been sensational thus far and is considered one of the team’s biggest standouts from the offseason program. Chig really shined during mandatory minicamp, when he grabbed four touchdown receptions over Tennessee’s two open practices.
Swaim hasn’t made much noise this offseason, but you wouldn’t expect him to. The veteran is known more for his blocking than pass-catching, but he is serviceable in the latter area.
It’s clear Okonkwo has the higher ceiling, at least in terms of being a pass-catcher, but Swaim has the edge in blocking right now. That could change when the pads come on at training camp.
If Okonkwo wants to secure as big a role as possible, he’ll have to show out as a blocker in camp. If not, he’ll be limited to just a pass-catcher role, which, of course, would limit his snaps and keep Swaim relevant.
Beyond the Chig versus Swaim Train battle, there could be a competition for a No. 4 role should the Titans choose to keep a fourth tight end on the initial 53.
Hudson is the favorite, but he suffered an undisclosed injury during OTAs and his status is uncertain at the moment. Hudson’s biggest competition for the role would be Moore, who is a great athlete but must show he can contribute as an effective blocker at the next level.
Odukoya is the longshot of the group and will likely land on the practice squad.
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