Hasselbeck on why Wright is clutch catcher

It’s impressive enough that Titans rookie Kendall Wright leads the NFL in third-down receptions with 19.

But Wright has also been converting those plays to first downs. Of the 19 third-down catches, 14 have resulted in first downs for the Titans. Those 14 third-down conversion receptions leave Wright tied for first in the NFL with Indianapolis’ Reggie Wayne.

What makes Wright such an inviting third-down target?

“It’s probably trust, I think,” Titans quarterback Matt Hasselbeck said. “Third down is where (defenses) bring all their exotic stuff. That’s where they game-plan for you specifically and in those situations, you go to someone you trust.

“Usually third down, you need it. It’s not the time to give it just anywhere. You gotta’ have it.”

Wright posted 15 of his third-down receptions in the month of October, an NFL best during that month.

“Anytime you do well with those opportunities — catch the ball and make a play — you get more opportunities,” Hasselbeck said. “He’s done that … so I would imagine he continues to get those (opportunities).

“We put in some plays for sure just for him. Stuff he’s done well in his past in college. He’ll be a part of this team for a long time. We’re just trying to go at his pace and the more he can handle and do, the more opportunities he’ll get.”

Posted In: Team News

Source: Titans Insider