Five Titans to watch close out the preseason as Brian Callahan gears up for Year 2. James Williams Sr. has taken strides at linebacker, flashing diagnose-and-react instincts that could put him in Week 1 starter discussions. Cedric Gray has matched Williams Sr. with intelligent play and disruptive edge timing. Van Jefferson has added veteran savvy to Tennessee's receiver corps, but a notable drop on a Cameron Ward throw keeps roster chatter alive. Xavier Restrepo has shown slot twitch and reliable ball security, though limited special-teams exposure could hurt his path. Marcus Harris flashed ball skills with deflections and playmaking in the last game, potentially earning a role in a thin CB group. The Vikings duel looms as the roster tightens and the depth chart gets carved down.

The Tennessee Titans pulled a surprise on the waiver wire, claiming Brian Asamoah from Minnesota to bolster their linebacker room, a move designed to inject speed and athleticism after a busy camp. Asamoah has spent most of his career on special teams, logging 46 NFL games with over 800 ST snaps, and saw limited but telling defensive action in the Vikings’ preseason opener (23 defensive snaps, 6 on special teams). To create room, Tennessee waived veteran inside linebacker Otis Reese IV, who faced a depth-chart shuffle after others stepped up in camp. The club also cut Keondre Coburn, another March signing, signaling a broader reshuffle at the position as James Williams and Cedric Gray push for more responsibilities, potentially reshaping the Titans’ Week 1 plan. Preseason use against the Buccaneers offered a preview of how these moves could influence depth, competition, and special-teams roles in 2025.

The Tennessee Titans are grappling with an ongoing dilemma at the linebacker position, marked by a troubling trend of frequent roster changes since November 2022. Despite considerable efforts, including high-profile signings and draft investments, the Titans have yet to find a reliable partner for Cody Barton at inside linebacker. Currently, Cedric Gray and James Williams, both second-year players, lead the competition despite their limited playing time. Coach Frank Bush acknowledges the critical nature of the position and the need for improvement as they prepare for the upcoming training camp.

The statistics reveal a staggering turnover in the linebacker ranks, with a list of 21 individuals participating in the competition over a single season. This level of instability raises concerns about the team's defensive capabilities, especially in run defense. With training camp on the horizon, the Titans are hopeful that Gray and Williams can mature into the steadfast contributors needed to stabilize the defense alongside the experienced Barton.

The Tennessee Titans are in a transitional phase as they prepare for the upcoming season, particularly at the inside linebacker position. With free agent Cody Barton joining the squad, the team is evaluating several young talents, among them second-year linebacker Cedric Gray. Gray, who faced challenges early in his rookie season due to injuries, has expressed newfound confidence and comfort in the revamped linebacker group as they compete during OTAs.

Gray's performance during the latter part of the previous season has laid a solid foundation for his aspirations in 2025. He aims to solidify his role and contribute significantly, indicating a strong desire to make an impact. As the Titans navigate the roster uncertainties, the linebacking competition will be pivotal not just for individual careers but for the team's defensive strategy moving forward.

The Tennessee Titans enter the offseason with several positional uncertainties. Quarterback Cam Ward is expected to lead the team, but his readiness for the season remains a pressing concern. Meanwhile, Tyjae Spears seeks a larger role in the backfield alongside Tony Pollard, though injury setbacks last year make his trajectory unclear.

Receiver Treylon Burks faces a crucial moment in his career as he battles injuries and competition from younger talent. At tight end, Gunnar Helm's ability to make an impact after being drafted is under scrutiny, as the Titans have not yet developed standout players at this position. Offensive line improvements revolve around Dan Moore Jr., who must show he can protect the quarterback effectively.

On defense, depth remains a question mark, with the need for reliable backups behind stars like Jeffery Simmons. Dre'Mont Jones is a key acquisition expected to bolster the pass rush, but how he fits into the defensive scheme is yet to be determined. The linebacker positions present another challenge as the Titans look for a second starter beside Cody Barton amidst a competitive roster. Lastly, questions persist over the secondary's capability, especially regarding L'Jarius Sneed's health and performance after a turbulent prior season.