The Tennessee Titans’ off-season has been marked by significant roster transformations and the ushering in of a new coaching era under the guidance of Head Coach Brian Callahan. Amidst these shifts, the spotlight has unexpectedly fallen on Treylon Burks, the team’s first-round pick from 2022, whose tenure with the Titans might be hanging by a thread.
When Burks was drafted, expectations were sky-high. He was seen as the potential heir to the throne left vacant by A.J. Brown’s departure to the Philadelphia Eagles. Yet, as the new season approaches, the narrative surrounding his role within the team has taken a dramatic turn.
From Starter to Special Teams
Initially, Coach Callahan’s stance on Burks was promising, indicating that he would be a versatile player across the board. “Treylon Burks will play everything,” Callahan asserted earlier in the off-season, challenging the notion that Burks might be the odd man out in a receiver room boasting talents like DeAndre Hopkins, Calvin Ridley, and Tyler Boyd.
However, recent developments suggest a shift in expectations. In a candid admission, Callahan revealed that Burks is now battling just to secure his spot on the roster, emphasizing the need for him to contribute in any capacity possible, especially on special teams.
He’s going to have to contribute,” Callahan remarked, following Burks’ stint as a gunner. “You know you only get so many hats on game day, and if he’s one of those guys on game day, we’re going to have to find a place for him.”
A Look at Treylon Burks’ Performance
Despite the high hopes pinned on him, Burks’ performance over his first two seasons has been underwhelming. With just 49 catches for 665 yards and a single touchdown, his output has fallen short of expectations.
If Callahan now views his primary value on special teams, it starkly diminishes the likelihood of Burks securing a definitive spot on the 53-man roster as summer concludes. “Anytime you’re not the full-time starter, you’re going to have to contribute somewhere on game day,” Callahan added, praising Burks’ attitude towards his role on special teams.
“I think Trey’s approach to special teams has been fantastic, and I’m excited to see what he can do for them.”
Treylon Burks Could a Trade Be on the Horizon for Tennessee Titans?
The evolving situation raises the possibility of Burks leaving Tennessee sooner rather than later. If the Titans decide to move on, a trade could be in the cards, potentially with a receiver-needy team like the Pittsburgh Steelers. While the return might not be substantial, securing some compensation for Burks could be more advantageous than releasing him if he fails to make the final roster cut.
As the Titans navigate through their restructuring under Coach Callahan, the saga of Treylon Burks will be a compelling storyline to watch. His journey from a first-round hopeful to a potential trade piece is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NFL. Whether he can reclaim his projected path or will pivot to a new team remains an unfolding chapter in this off-season drama.
Source: yardbarker
