The Tennessee Titans are gearing up for another action-packed season, with training camp kicking off on Tuesday, July 23. The first practice follows the next day, marking the start of a critical period for players vying for a spot on the 53-man roster. Every year, underdog players come out of nowhere, beating out seasoned veterans to secure their place in the NFL. So, who could it be for the Titans this year? Let’s dive into some of the potential standouts.
DE Isaiah Iton
Isaiah Iton may not have had a standout college career, but there are plenty of reasons to keep an eye on him. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 277 pounds, Iton boasts an impressive build. The Rutgers alum also showed his athletic prowess in pre-draft testing, recording 29 reps on the bench press, a 32.5-inch vertical, and a 9-foot-3 broad jump.
While his college stats include just one sack and four tackles for loss over three years, the Titans' depth upfront is thin. If Iton can make an impact during training camp and preseason, the 22-year-old could secure a spot on the Titans' roster.
RB Dillon Johnson
The Titans’ backfield is already buzzing with excitement as Tony Pollard joins Tyjae Spears, creating a dynamic one-two punch. However, there’s an open competition for the third running back spot, with candidates like Julius Chestnut, Hassan Haskins, Dillon Johnson, and Vols alum Jabari Small vying for the position.
While Chestnut and Haskins are favorites due to their experience and special teams skills, Dillon Johnson has a real shot. The 23-year-old was instrumental in Washington’s dominant offense last season, helping lead the Huskies to the National Championship Game. Despite battling significant lower-body injuries, Johnson racked up 1,195 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns in 2023.
Unlike Pollard and Spears, Johnson brings a different style of play. Listed at 5-foot-11 and 217 pounds, he runs with power and great vision, though he isn’t the fastest back. A strong showing this summer could pave the way for Johnson to earn a spot on the 53-man roster.
CB Gabe Jeudy-Lally
Cornerback is one of the Titans' strongest positions, especially with the additions of L’Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie, who join third-year nickel Roger McCreary. Despite this, there’s still room for competition when it comes to depth.
One player who made a strong impression during minicamp is Gabe Jeudy-Lally. Having played at both Vanderbilt and Tennessee, Jeudy took full advantage of his opportunities, especially with some veterans missing time. Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson praised Jeudy’s length and aggressiveness, and new Titans star corner Chido Awuzie also had kind words for the rookie.
To secure his spot, Jeudy will need to outperform players like Tre Avery, Caleb Farley, and Eric Garror, and show his value on special teams.
G Cole Spencer
The Titans’ offensive line underwent a significant overhaul this offseason, with additions like JC Latham, Lloyd Cushenberry III, and Saahdiq Charles. Amidst these changes, undrafted guard Cole Spencer emerged as an intriguing addition.
Spencer, 25, spent seven years in college due to multiple injuries, playing for Western Kentucky and Texas Tech. The Titans did extensive research on him, including a private workout with offensive line expert Bill Callahan. Their interest culminated in offering Spencer the most lucrative undrafted deal of the year for the team.
Spencer's impressive 9.43 Relative Athletic Score put him on the NFL radar. Although he faces stiff competition for a reserve line spot, his performance in training camp could secure him a place on the Week 1 roster.
Key Takeaways
- Training Camp Kickoff: Players report on July 23, with the first practice on July 24.
- Opportunities Abound: Training camp is a crucial period for players to make their mark.
- Underdog Stories: Every year, lesser-known players beat out veterans for roster spots.
As the Titans prepare for training camp, the excitement builds. Whether it’s Isaiah Iton’s raw athleticism, Dillon Johnson’s powerful running, Gabe Jeudy-Lally’s promising minicamp performance, or Cole Spencer’s underdog journey, these players have the potential to surprise everyone and secure their place on the Titans’ roster. Keep an eye out as these stories unfold in the coming weeks.
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