The Titans named seven permanent captains for 2025: Cam Ward, Calvin Ridley, Tony Pollard, Jeffery Simmons, Amani Hooker, Cody Barton and Morgan Cox. Lloyd Cushenberry was revealed as the eighth captain for Week 1 vs Denver. Cushenberry, who sat out practice late last season after an Achilles tear, returns to anchor an offensive line facing Denver’s feared pass rush with a rookie quarterback under center.

Denver’s front seven and exotic blitzes heighten Week 1 risk for Tennessee, making Cushenberry’s communication critical. Ward’s first NFL test will shape early-season fantasy value for Ridley and Pollard, while veteran anchors like Simmons and Hooker, plus Barton’s IDP floor and Cox’s special-teams reliability, provide leadership and steady production as the Titans navigate a tough opener.

Cam Ward, the Titans' rookie captain, steps into a leadership role as Tennessee opens the season with him at the controls. Ward joins Calvin Ridley, Tony Pollard, Jeffery Simmons, Amani Hooker, Cody Barton and Morgan Cox as captains, giving a unique blend of offense, defense and special teams leadership. Ward’s Week 1 assignment against Denver highlights the heavy expectation on a rookie quarterback to set the tone, while Ridley and Pollard provide veteran firepower around him. The group underscores a team-wide emphasis on accountability and preparation.

Ward’s rise is framed by an unconventional path—from Incarnate Word to Washington State to Miami—positioning him as a high-upside, low-floor option for fantasy managers who bet on early opportunities and mentor-like leadership. Ridley’s presence signals volume upside, Pollard’s stabilized carries, and Simmons’ and Hooker’s anchor roles on defense. Barton and Cox add depth across special teams and front-seven leadership, creating a cohesive, accountable culture from Week 1 onward.

Overall, the Titans lean into Ward’s leadership as a catalyst for a season that could hinge on his ability to translate college-level poise to NFL decision-making. fantasy managers should watch Ward’s early volume distribution, Ridley’s target share, Pollard’s touches, and the defense’s ability to disrupt games, especially in a Week 1 clash with the Broncos.

Morgan Cox, the Tennessee Titans' long-snapper, has had an eventful NFL career since signing as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens in 2010. Over a decade with the Ravens, he proved his reliability, only to then transition to the Titans in 2021 on a one-year contract, followed by extensions each subsequent year. Cox's journey has taken him beyond the field, as he recently embarked on a soul-searching trip to Uganda, which he describes as a transformative experience. His time there provided him with insights into personal growth and connection, both on and off the field.

The Miami Dolphins have appointed Craig Aukerman as their new special teams coordinator following the dismissal of Danny Crossman. Aukerman, who has a wealth of experience in the NFL, previously served as a special teams assistant for the Los Angeles Rams, contributing to their successful run during the 2023 season. Before joining the Rams, he had a significant tenure with the Tennessee Titans, where he was the special teams coordinator for five years, coaching two Pro Bowl players.

Aukerman's appointment comes after a turbulent year for him in Tennessee, where he was let go mid-season following a series of unfortunate events that included a blocked punt and an injury to the punter. His new role with the Dolphins presents an opportunity for redemption and the chance to bring his expertise to a team looking to improve its special teams play.