The Tennessee Titans are gearing up for their inaugural preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers this Saturday. The team, under the new leadership of head coach Brian Callahan, is setting the stage for what looks to be an intriguing match-up.
New Leadership and Key Roster Updates
Brian Callahan, recently appointed as the head coach, has been vocal about his expectations and the standards he wants to instill in the team. Emphasizing the need for precision, Callahan stated, "No sloppiness" and proper alignment are crucial for a "good operation," setting a tone of discipline and high performance for his squad.
Among the key players to watch is rookie quarterback Will Levis, who has been named the full-time starter for the Titans. This decision comes as a significant move for the franchise, signaling a new direction and reliance on fresh talent.
The Titans, however, will be missing two of their key players in the upcoming game. Both Jeffery Simmons and Harold Landry are slated to sit out the preseason opener. This absence will undoubtedly be felt, as both players are known for their impactful performances on the field.
Injuries and Suspensions
Caleb Farley is another player who will be unavailable for the Titans in the near future. Farley exited Wednesday's practice early due to a hamstring injury and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks. The young cornerback has been plagued by injuries, having been limited to just 12 games since being picked 22nd overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.
The team also faces the challenge of coping with a suspension. Arden Key has been suspended for six games as a result of violating the NFL's policy against performance-enhancing drugs. This suspension comes at a crucial time, putting additional pressure on the Titans' defensive unit.
Roster Movements and Retirement
In a positive development, Nicholas Petit-Frere has been removed from the PUP list as of last week, bolstering the Titans' depth chart. On another note, Saahdiq Charles has announced his retirement, marking the end of his professional football career.
Rookies and Rising Stars
Beyond these roster changes, Callahan expressed great enthusiasm about the performance of Jaylen Harrell, Tennessee's final selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. "Everything about Jaylen has been really, really exciting," Callahan shared, highlighting the rookie's promising potential.
This preseason is also showcasing some standout performances in practice. Tyjae Spears delivered an impressive display, scoring two touchdowns out of the backfield. Additionally, Mason Kinsey connected with Mason Rudolph for a touchdown, showing strong synergy between the teammates.
On the defensive side, Luke Gifford made a notable impact by intercepting a pass during an 11-on-11 drill, while T'Vondre Sweat executed a powerful bull rush. Callahan has been particularly impressed with the versatility of his linebackers, describing one as an "old-school outside linebacker who can sink in coverage or attack the outside shoulder of the tackle." He added, "And that's a big step for a young player. And then he's actually shown real ability to rush."
Overall, the Tennessee Titans are facing both challenges and moments of promise as they head into their preseason opener against the 49ers. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, under the steady hand of Callahan, the team looks prepared to tackle the upcoming season with determination and focus.