Why the Titans should re-sign CHig Okonkwo + Contract projection
It all begins with an idea.
Donald Page/Tennessee Titans
Written by Brody Rupert
The Tennessee Titans are one of the worst rosters in the NFL, but they have some extremely talented young players. One of the keys to building a successful NFL franchise is the ability to extend players after their rookie contracts, and the Titans have a young player whose importance to the team is greater than some may realize.
Chigoziem Okonkwo is the team’s starting tight end despite the slow increase in the workload for Gunnar Helm, and has been a consistent presence since he was drafted in 2022. Okonkwo has eclipsed 450 yards in each of his first three seasons, with a height of 528 in 2023. Giving rookie quarterback Cam Ward consistency in his weapons and coaching staff is important for his development, so keeping the talented young weapon in Chig Okonkwo could be a huge benefit.
Okonkwo should not be too expensive of an extension. He does not put up superstar numbers or incredible highlight reel plays. Titans fans do know the impact he has on the offense, being a quick player who has shown real potential through his rookie contract. I expect his contract to be similar in the range of Mike Gesicki or Dawson Knox, which would put him at about an average of $8.5 -$ 10 million per year. The Titans may be blessed with some extra cap room due to L’Jarius Sneed’s legal issues, allowing them to potentially void his guaranteed money.
My prediction: 3 years, $28.5 million
With rookie tight end Gunnar Helm establishing himself as a talented tight end as well, this gives the Titans the potential to utilize 12 personnel (1 running back, 2 tight ends). This is a heavily utilized package in the NFL that gives the offense the versatility to provide more blocking on run plays as well as use their 2 tight ends as pass catchers, opening up the offense. Okonkwo's skill as a pass catcher is what is most notable, but he has also proved to be improving as a blocker. In 2024, He was ranked 15th among tight ends in pass blocking with a 74.8 ranking according to PFF.
Finally, Chig has proved to be an excellent teammate and locker room personality. He always has a smile on his face, despite the team’s hardships. Those covering the team, such as Buck Reising, have stated how much they like Chig as a personality, always being willing to talk to the media and having a good attitude. Having an upbeat, happy personality in the locker room is great for team morale and proves him as a leader.
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