Harold Landry Drafted by Titans, and Twitter Fears for Opposing Offenses
April 27, 2018
The Tennessee Titans selected Boston College defensive end Harold Landry after trading up to acquire the No. 41 overall pick in the second round of the 2018 NFL draft at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Here was the reaction from social media after Landry joined linebacker Rashaan Evans, who was selected No. 22 overall on Thursday, on the Titans defense:
Landry emerged as a potential first-round pick with a breakout 2016 campaign for the Eagles. He racked up 50 total tackles, 16.5 sacks, seven forced fumbles and an interception across 12 games.
The 21-year-old North Carolina native failed to match that performance as a senior, though. He tallied 38 tackles and five sacks in eight games before suffering an ankle injury in October. He missed BC's final five games, including a loss to Iowa in the Pinstripe Bowl.
His drop in production paired with the injury raised questions about his draft stock. For his part, Landry said at the NFL Scouting Combine in March he's out to prove he's the "best pass-rusher in this draft class," thanks in part to terrific athletic ability, highlighted by his small-area quickness.
"I think that a lot of people—and I really mean this—talk about my athletic ability and the 'L' drill and pass-rush ability," he told reporters. "But I think the thing that sets me apart from some of the other guys is just my mindset and approach to the game. You can ask anybody close to me, really. All I care about is my family and football."
Pro Football Focus graded him as the 2018 class' top edge defender:
It showcased Landry's progress since signing with Boston College as a 3-star prospect and the No. 421 overall player in 247Sports' composite rankings for 2014.
All told, Landry likely would have been in consideration as a top-five selection if he matched his 2016 numbers last season. While that didn't happen because of the injury, this represents a nice value pick by the Titans if he returns to full strength as an NFL rookie.
He should slot in as a pass-rusher off the edge during his first year in Tennessee to help the team get back to the playoffs after reaching the AFC divisional round last season.