Jim Wyatt

jwyatt@tennessean.com

The Titans said they have no concerns about Taylor Lewan's off-field issues or character, even though their first-round pick faces assault charges in Michigan.

On May 19, the former Wolverines tackle will formally be charged with one count of aggravated assault and two counts of assault and battery related to a Dec. 1 altercation between Michigan and Ohio State fans following a game between those teams the previous day in Ann Arbor, Mich.

"I was completely breaking things up," Lewan said during a conference call after the Titans made him the 11th overall pick of the NFL Draft on Thursday. "I did push guys to get everything out of the way. I never struck a man (with a) closed fist or anything of that nature. The thing is, I explained to (the Titans) everything and told them the truth, that's what it was. I'm happy that (the Titans) believed me."

During his freshman year at Michigan, Lewan also allegedly threatened to "rape" a woman if she went to the police regarding a sexual assault investigation that involved a former Michigan teammate. No charges have been filed in that incident, and Lewan has since denied making the comment.

The Titans discussed the incidents with Lewan before the draft. Management revisited the topic of his character again on Thursday before the draft, general manager Ruston Webster said.

"We addressed those with Taylor. We addressed them prior (to the draft)," Webster said. "Obviously, we talked about it even (Thursday) just to make sure. I feel pretty comfortable with where he is. Taylor is a tough guy. I feel pretty comfortable that we're going to get a solid guy here."

Lewan vowed to be a good citizen in Nashville.

"I'm happy that (the Titans) believed me. I'm happy that they believed in my character, the kind of person I am," he said. "My job is to not do reckless things off the field. My job is to make sure my quarterback is safe and my running backs are in good positions to gain yards."