League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Match Previews

ESPN identifies JC Latham as Tennessee Titans X factor for 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 11:03 AM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

ESPN identifies JC Latham as Tennessee Titans X factor for 2026 season

Summary

ESPN selected Tennessee Titans right tackle JC Latham as the team's primary player to watch for the 2026 season. Entering his third year in the NFL, Latham faces a critical stretch as he looks to solidify his position on the offensive line. The Titans have struggled to find long-term stability at right tackle since the 2020 departure of Jack Conklin. Latham has navigated position shifts and injuries during his first two seasons, contributing to a rocky start to his professional career. The organization hopes his development will provide better protection for quarterback Cam Ward in head coach Brian Daboll's offense. A strong performance this year is necessary for the former first-round draft pick to demonstrate his value before upcoming decisions regarding his fifth-year option.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•ESPN named JC Latham the Titans' X factor for the 2026 NFL season.
•Latham was the seventh overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft.
•The Titans have lacked a consistent starter at right tackle since 2020.
•Latham previously moved between left and right tackle while dealing with injuries.
•A breakout performance would solidify the blocking unit for quarterback Cam Ward.

Latest Updates

11:03 AMYahoo Sports — ESPN has surprising pick for Titans' X factor in 2026

What they're saying

"
ESPN names JC Latham the Titans' X factor for 2026, as his development is a key part of Tennessee's hopes for a major improvement from the offense.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Tennessee Titans NFL Football