Only Kendall Wright caught more passes than Delanie Walker (60) for Tennessee last year, only Wright and Nate Washington had more yards (571), and no one had more than half as many touchdowns (6). The Nashville Tennessean thinks he'll continue to play a huge role; maybe even bigger.
"All signs point to a big year" says this article in the paper. Walker has been working on his blocking to stay on the field more often, and after missing much of the offseason program last year while coming off knee surgery, he's been a full participant this year.
The Titans also have a new offensive system, with Ken Whisenhunt the new head coach. In San Diego last year, Whisenhunt's offense emphasized the tight end in the passing game. There's some uncertainty (while with Arizona, tight ends didn't make as much of an impact), but it all looks pretty good for Walker.
Tennessee has other tight ends, but Walker is the best pass catcher of the bunch. Next to Wright, he could turn out to be the best receiving option for the team. One negative is that he's a smaller guy for a tight end, making him a less appealing target in the red zone. That's one reason for our modest projection for him.
--Andy Richardson