The Tennessee Titans signed several undrafted free agents at the conclusion of the 2022 NFL Draft. Former SMU wide receiver Reggie Roberson Jr. is reportedly one of those players. Roberson enjoyed a successful 2021 campaign by totaling 51 catches for 625 receiving yards and six touchdowns in SMU’s high-octane, pass-heavy offense. Roberson is an explosive playmaker with rapid acceleration skills.
Roberson 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 pass catcher, what his goals and aspirations are ahead of rookie mini-camp and training camp, and so much more.
JM: You were able to play a full season in 2021 and you had a great year. You recorded 51 catches for 625 receiving yards and six touchdowns. You must have felt a sense of vindication, like yeah, I always knew I was capable of producing at this rate.
RRJR: I definitely felt like that. Going into my final year, it was important for me to stay healthy and prove that I could play a full season of high-level football. I believe I did that. I had a few previous injuries but I went out there in 2021 and did what my coaches asked of me. I gave it my all. I feel like I could have had a better season than I did, but I had a solid season that helped the team win games at the end of the day.
JM: You’re extremely explosive with the ball in your hands. That’s one trait that really sticks out to me when I turn the tape on. How did you develop that aspect of your game?
RRJR: I’ve been having that knack for creating big plays with the ball in my hands since I was a young kid (laughs). Whenever I get the ball in my hands, I want to do something special with it. I’m always looking to create a big play or score a touchdown. I love racking up yards after the catch. I practice that a little bit. I’m always working on some post-catch moves and what not, working on making defenders miss in the open field. I set defenders up so they don’t have a good angle on me. It’s something I’ve been doing since I was a kid.
JM: You’ve now signed with the Titans as an undrafted free agent. How did the opportunity with the Titans come about?
RRJR: They reached out to my agent at the conclusion of the draft. We had been in contact. They put a strong offer on the table and I decided to take it. I felt like Tennessee was the best place for me. It’s a place where I can earn an opportunity to make the roster and play. I’m excited to show them what I’m really capable of. The type of production I strung together during my junior and senior seasons, I’m still that explosive player. I’m fully healthy and ready to contribute to the team.
JM: Which members of the Titans were you in contact with throughout the pre-draft process?
RRJR: I spoke with the Titans at the NFL Scouting Combine. I sat down with wide receivers coach Rob Moore and went over some things. I had another Zoom call with coach Moore later in the process.
JM: Did you feel like they were always one of the teams that showed a lot of interest in you?
RRJR: Yeah, I for sure did. We had multiple meetings with one another. I felt like they had a lot of interest in me. Throughout all the zoom calls and other meetings I had with them, they told me they felt like I’m a good player. All of our meetings went well. Coach Moore told me I’m a good player. I appreciated their time and genuine interest.
JM: When you arrive at rookie mini-camp, you’ll encounter a familiar face. Fellow SMU alumni Hayden Howerton also signed with the Titans as an undrafted free agent.
RRJR: We talked about it as soon as we both found out we were going to the Titans. I texted him and told him let’s get to work. We’re about to show the world what we’re all about. We’re super excited. He’s one of my good friends. I can’t wait to get up there and see a familiar face. Going through this journey with him is going to be really cool.
JM: SMU’s offense is very pass-heavy and high-octane. It sometimes has a reputation for being a bit simpler and friendly to play in. How did playing in that offense help prepare you for the next level?
RRJR: I wouldn’t say it was simple. I played for three different offensive coordinators. I’ve played in multiple offenses and schemes. I can play in whatever offense and get the system down. We were definitely a pass-heavy offense. We didn’t have a 2,000-yard rusher or anything like that. I’m sure I’ll see some similarities with the Titans offense. It definitely prepared me to play in the league.
JM: What about the route tree itself? How do you typically address that question? The offense definitely scored a lot of points.
RRJR: We ran some posts, digs, and whatnot. It wasn’t too crazy. I’ve always practiced running more NFL routes because I know the route tree will be expansive at the next level. I’ve been aware of that and I’ve put the time in running those routes and becoming more familiar with them. I have a great training staff. I’m prepared for whatever comes next.
JM: I don’t know how well you know the Titans roster, but is there one teammate you’re excited to learn from?
RRJR: I would love to learn from Robert Woods. He’s such a seasoned veteran. I spent a lot of time watching Robert Woods while he was with the Los Angeles Rams. He’s always been a great receiver. I actually used to play with David Long at West Virginia. I know he’s on the defensive side of the ball, but I’m super excited to reunite and connect with him. There’s a few people on the Titans roster I’m excited to get in front of. I’m excited to be a part of this organization.
JM: Wow, that’s awesome with you and David Long. I had forgotten about that. I’ve really appreciated your time today. In closing, what are your goals and aspirations like over these next few months as you attempt to make Tennessee’s final roster?
RRJR: I’m excited to get out here and make the most of my opportunity. I’m going to put my head down and get to work. I’m going to show them that I’m a baller at the end of the day. I can do whatever needs to be done.
