Robert Saleh reveals Titans' plan to utilize Keldric Faulk

The Tennessee Titans had a busy night during the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday night. After selecting Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate with the fourth overall pick, they traded back into the end of the first round to select Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk at 31st overall.

Trading up in the draft came at a cost, as the Titans lost their only second-round pick and swapped their only fourth-round pick for an additional fifth-round pick in the process. However, general manager Mike Borgonzi and head coach Robert Saleh feel good about their first-round haul.

During their press conference to introduce their first round tandem, Robert Saleh had some interesting things to say about his plans to utilize Keldric Faulk in his defensive front.

Faulk will be utilized inside and outside

Listed at nearly 6'6" and 276 lbs at the 2026 NFL Combine, Faulk adds length to the Titans' defensive front. Robert Saleh compared his measurables to similar players he has coached in the past, namely Arik Armstead, Mykel Williams, and John Franklin-Meyers (whom he will coach again in Tennessee).

Saleh also gave insight into the plans he has for Faulk in Tennessee. He plans to play him on the outside as an edge rusher on early downs (1st and 2nd) and slide him inside to rush the passer on third downs. Another important development is his plan to have eight to nine defensive guys suit up on gamedays.

Training camp battles and the development of Faulk still have to take place, but it sounds like he has the early track to start at the opposite edge rusher position from Jermaine Johnson. Last year's second-round pick, Femi Oladejo, was also mentioned as a player who would get opportunities, along with others.