Former linebacker turned record-breaking speedster, Jaren Kanak brings an explosive, late-round addition to the Titans' tight end unit.
The Tennessee Titans selected Oklahoma tight end Jaren Kanak in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Kanak had 533 receiving yards, averaging 12.1 yards per reception for the Sooners last season.
What makes Kanak interesting as a prospect is that 2025 was his first year playing tight end in college. He was a four-star linebacker prospect in the 2022 class.
When he first got to Oklahoma, his role was primarily on special teams. He played in 13 games and accounted for 24 total tackles, one TFL, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
He then played in 13 games with nine starts in 2023, recording 62 total tackles, six TFLs and two sacks. Kanak's role diminished the following season. He played in all 13 games but had only one start, mainly serving as a backup linebacker and special-teamer.
Kanak finished with 17 total tackles and one fumble recovery and knew it was time for a position change.
His 533 receiving yards were good for third on the team last season, finishing only behind receivers Deion Burks (620) and Isaiah Sategna (965).
Another thing about Kanak is his speed for a tight end. He ran a 4.52 40-yard dash, which is pretty good among the tight ends who went to the NFL Combine. Kanak had the fourth-fastest 40-yard dash. Only R.J. Maryland (4.51), Eli Stowers (4.51) and Kenyon Sadiq (4.39) were faster.
Here's what ESPN said about Kanak as a prospect.
"Kanak spent his career at Oklahoma, with the first three seasons coming at linebacker before switching to tight end in 2025," ESPN said. "He is more of an H-back/move tight end because he lacks the ideal bulk and length to play in-line. Kanak needs to develop a lot more as a route runner, but his speed gives him upside. And despite the late position switch, he produced 44 receptions for 533 yards this past season. Kanak demonstrated good hands with the ability to consistently extend for the ball. As a blocker, he shows some willingness to throw his body around but is inconsistent in his effectiveness and technique."
The tight end room in the Music City now features Gunnar Helm, Daniel Bellinger, Kylen Granson, Kanak, David Martin-Robinson and Joel Wilson.
Kanak may need to separate himself in training camp to get decent playing time as a rookie. It'll be interesting to see how the tight end room shakes up in 2026. Helm and Bellinger are expected to be the starters.
However, Kanak's speed as a tight end will definitely do him some favors. The Titans have a very interesting tight end prospect on their hands.