Tennessee Titans shake up their inside linebacker group ahead of a two-day joint practice with the Atlanta Falcons, signing Khaleke Hudson and Blake Lynch to add competition. To make room, Tennessee waived David Gbenda and waived/injured Anfernee Orji after an ACL tear against Tampa Bay. Hudson brings veteran versatility from Commanders, Saints and Browns, while Lynch adds depth from multiple teams after entering as an undrafted rookie with Minnesota in 2020. The signings set the stage for a spirited competition on the practice field with Atlanta, with both newcomers expected to get their first Titans reps during Tuesday’s session.

Hudson, a 6-2, 200-pound linebacker, has appeared in 75 games with 12 starts, tallying 91 tackles, one sack, seven tackles for loss, two passes defensed and 26 special-teams stops. He spent 2024 largely on special teams for New Orleans and Cleveland, suiting up in all 17 games with eight tackles. Lynch, a 6-3, 225-pounder, has 47 career tackles, two sacks and one interception across 29 games (seven starts) for five teams since being signed by Minnesota as an undrafted free agent in 2020.

Both players figure to compete for meaningful snaps as the Titans continue to shape their depth ahead of the Falcons joint practices. The move signals Tennessee’s ongoing willingness to push seasoned players and young reserves to raise the floor of the rotation while evaluating how the off-ball and coverage roles mesh with the rest of the defense. The practice series with Atlanta will reveal how Hudson and Lynch adjust to Tennessee’s scheme and how the loss of Orji might affect the competition at middle linebacker and sub-package alignments.

Cam Ward's Titans debut warmup signals a potential late-round pivot for fantasy rosters if Tennessee endures quarterback instability. His poised mechanics and efficient decision-making in limited work hint at an arrow pointing up in dynasty and deep-league formats.

Travis Hunter's two-way preseason plan with Jacksonville showcases a rare ceiling for fantasy managers who chase multi-position contributors, while J.J. McCarthy's lone Vikings series kept his stock simmering as a stash in superflex leagues. Rondale Moore's first-touch injury in the same night adds a caution flag to wide-receiver depth, and Jaxson Dart's Giants appearance drew praise from the GM, underscoring the value of rookie resilience. The night also highlighted Jordan Mason's early-down reps for Minnesota, quelling questions about a backfield role. Collectively, the performances and hurdles create several floating targets for late-season fantasy rosters and speculative bets.

Anfernee Orji, recently claimed by the Tennessee Titans, is gearing up for the upcoming NFL season with a fresh approach. After being picked off waivers from the New Orleans Saints, he's eager to establish his position as a reliable inside linebacker with a knack for special teams. In a recent interview, Orji detailed how he's refining his training regimen, focusing on building not just his physical fitness but also enhancing his football IQ, aiming to make a significant impact on the field.

Orji's dedication to learning and improving has been evident during the offseason, as he takes this opportunity to compete for a place in a crowded linebacker corps. His experience at training camps has him feeling optimistic about his contributions to the Titans’ defense. Orji's journey is a testament to the hard work and commitment needed to succeed in the NFL, and his development will be closely watched as the season unfolds.

With just 58 days left until the New Orleans Saints kick off the 2025 season against the Arizona Cardinals, it's time to reflect on the legacy of the number 58 jersey within the franchise. Anfernee Orji wore it last, but he is far from the only player to don this number. Over the years, notable figures like Joe Federspiel and Scott Shanle have left their mark while wearing 58, contributing significantly on defense. Federspiel, inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame, remains a key historical reference as he wore the number the longest. Scott Shanle and others also had substantial careers, proving that this number has been a vessel of talent and tenacity for the Saints.

The Tennessee Titans have made a significant roster move, adding linebacker Anfernee Orji while parting ways with running back Jabari Small. As the organization focuses on building a competitive team for the upcoming 2025 season, the addition of Orji, a promising linebacker, may impact the team's defensive strategy. The Titans continue to refine their lineup and prepare for the forthcoming schedule announcement, aiming for a successful campaign.