The Tennessee Titans signed several undrafted free agents at the conclusion of the 2022 NFL Draft. Former Texas A&M defensive linemen Jayden Peevy is one of those players. Peevy is a big and long defensive line prospect with exciting power at the point of attack. Peevy departs the Aggies with 137 total tackles, 19.0 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks under his belt. Peevy has been training under the watchful eye of former Titans defensive linemen Shaun Smith.
Peevy recently spoke exclusively with Broadway Sports about how he formed a relationship with Tennessee throughout the pre-draft process, his overall skill set as a defensive linemen, and what his goals and aspirations are ahead of rookie mini-camp and training camp.
JM: What was draft weekend like for you?
JP: It was a blessing. It was a stressful weekend but it was ultimately a dream come true for me. I took the weekend one day at a time and spent it with my loved ones. I unfortunately didn’t get drafted but I managed to sign with the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent. I’m excited for the opportunity ahead of me. It’s an all-around blessing.
JM: You signed with the Titans, as you mentioned. How did the opportunity with the Titans come about?
JP: I was in constant communication with defensive line coach Terrell Williams throughout the weekend of the draft. He was very adamant about wanting me to become a Tennessee Titan. Coach Williams also spoke with my position coach in college, coach Elijah Robinson. After speaking with coach Williams, coach Robinson agreed that Tennessee was the best fit for me. I agreed with their sentiment.
JM: You were in contact with defensive line coach Williams. Were there other members of the Titans organization you were in contact with throughout the pre-draft process?
JP: No sir. I didn’t have any other meetings or anything like that. Coach Williams was my lone point of contact. I built a strong relationship with coach Williams throughout the process.
JM: Would you consider yourself more advanced as a pass rusher, or as a run stopper at this point in time?
JP: I consider myself to be a versatile defensive linemen. I can stop the run and rush the passer. I love stopping the run, though. That’s something that allows you to rush the passer on later downs. It’s like a reward.
JM: That’s a great point. You’ve been training with former Tennessee Titans defensive linemen Shaun Smith. How has he helped you take your game to the next level?
JP: Shaun Smith has been like a big brother to me. He’s going to be honest with me. He tells me the truth. I appreciate that about him. He gets after me during drills (laughs). If he feels like I’m not attacking a certain drill to the best of my ability or whatever, he gets on me. He knows I can do better and he’s always striving for more. He understands how to get the most out of me. He’s always there for me. He has my best interests at heart. I appreciate his time and everything he’s done for me.
JM: He sounds like a terrific coach and mentor. I don’t know how well you know the Titans roster, but is there a teammate you’re excited to meet and learn from?
JP: Of course I have to go with Jeffery Simmons. That’s a Pro Bowl defensive tackle right there. I remember watching his film when he was still at Mississippi State when I was still a younger player at Texas A&M. I’m excited to get to know him. I plan on picking his brain on how I can become a more complete player.
JM: That’s a terrific choice. I’ve appreciated your time today. In closing, what are your goals for rookie mini-camp and training camp as you attempt to make the Titans’ final roster?
JP: My main goal is to make the 53-man roster. From there, I’m striving to be active for several regular-season games. I want to make a legitimate impact as a rookie on the Titans’ defensive line.
Editor’s note: Interview was conducted in early May, before Titans rookie minicamp.
