2013-14 Tennessee Titans Training Camp Preview: Safeties
Feb 3, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis (52) and strong safety Bernard Pollard (31) during the second quarter in Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Training camp is right around the corner. The 2013-14 NFL regular season is fewer than two months away. What can Tennessee Titans enthusiasts expect from their team as they prepare for those meaningful games that begin in September?
Over the next few days, Titan Sized will give a brief preview on each position. What are some storylines heading into training camp and preseason games? Are there any jobs up for grabs? All players listed are from the roster at titansonline.com.
Our defensive previews continue with safeties.
2013-14 Tennessee Titans Training Camp Participants: Safeties
Al Afalava
Michael Griffin
Robert Johnson
Markelle Martin
Bernard Pollard
Daimion Stafford
George Wilson
Tracy Wilson
Storylines:
No. 1: Will Michael Griffin Return to Pro Bowl Form?
It’s easy to forget that Griffin is a two-time Pro Bowl safety. Last season, Griffin didn’t play up to the five-year, $35 million contract that he signed in 2012. He missed tackles, struggled in pass coverage against tight ends, and it didn’t appear as though the coaches put him in the best positions to succeed.
With Pollard and Wilson anchoring the strong safety spot, Griffin can return to what he does best. Will that have any impact on his ability?
No. 2: Does Bernard Pollard Bring that Extra Fire to the Defense?
Many Titans enthusiasts were ecstatic when the Titans signed Pollard. The 28-year-old journeyman safety has a reputation for hard hits and leadership. For the last couple of seasons since Jeff Fisher left, the defense appeared to miss fiery personalities. It became a bigger issue when Cortland Finnegan left after the 2011-12 NFL season.
There’s no doubt that Pollard and/or Wilson are upgrades from Jordan Babineaux or Chris Hope. Are they enough of an improvement? Time will tell.
No. 3: Rounding out the Depth Chart
Among the biggest questions deals with backup free safety. Reportedly, Verner spent much of mini camps taking reps at free safety. Could the Titans rely on him as the backup to Griffin? After missing all of last season, how will Martin contribute? Will he make the roster?