Hard to believe that we’re only a week out from the start of 2024 training camp for the Tennessee Titans. I mean, it feels like only yesterday that we were pounding booze on the 440 Sports live stream for the NFL Draft. A few weeks ago, the prospects of a six-or-so-week break from football seemed daunting and yet here we are. We blinked and training camp is on the horizon. So, I thought I’d take the opportunity to list a few position battles I’ll be watching eagerly.
Titans: Training Camp Battles I’m Stoked to Watch
Right Tackle – I think there are three starting positions that are truly up for grabs this summer. Chief among them is the right tackle spot. It truly feels wide open. Nicholas Petit-Frere has the experience. Jaelyn Duncan has the athleticism and upside. But, it was upstart John Ojukwu who capitalized on both NPF’s and Duncan’s absence throughout OTAs by impressing coaches. If Bill Callahan prioritizes power in his offensive linemen, Ojukwu checks that box. I’m excited to see whether Ojukwu’s run was enough to stave off the others, or if this job really has been NPF’s all along.
Inside Linebacker – I’m a tad worried about the depth at inside linebacker, and I’ve been watching Ravens and 49ers tape all offseason. So, I’m just seeing what could be with two good linebackers patrolling the middle of the field. I don’t think the Titans have a Fred Warner or a Roquan Smith. Instead, judging by the state of this position group, it looks like the Titans may go the platoon route. I don’t know for sure who either of the starters will be. I’m assuming Jack Gibbens and Kenneth Murray for now, but Cedric Gray, James Williams, Otis Reese, and maybe even Jamal Adams could enter the fold. It may be the only position on the roster where they have insane numbers in terms of volume, but no real locks to be the guy.
Safety 2 – Amani Hooker has solidified himself atop the safety depth chart, but beyond him, it’s a question mark. I’m a big fan of Elijah Molden, but the Jamal Adams signing certainly complicates his changes of being the other starter. I’ll be fascinated to see how this race plays out.
Punt returner/kick returner – The new special teams rules make the kick return spot intriguing. We’ve basically conceded that a kick return is practically a running play. So, maybe they’ll actually use a running back back there as opposed to a wide receiver. I don’t know. The possibilities are endless. Jha’Quan Jackson seems like a lock for one of these roles, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see them give Treylon Burks a shot at one of these spots given his skill set.
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Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network, and a Dogs Playing Poker on velvet connoisseur. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD, #BeBetter, and ‘Minds right, asses tight.’ “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, Yankee Candle, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley.
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