Following each preseason game, I’ll post individual grades for the Titans’ rookies based upon their performance, progress, and potential for making the final roster.
Derrick Morgan (DNP) – A calf injury is apparently going to postpone his coming out party for at least another week. I’m anxious to see how NFL-ready Morgan is, but I have to admit I’d rather the Titans continue to play it safe.
Damian Williams (DNP) – Fresh off the Physically-Unable-to-Perform (PUP) list, I’m not sure that I ever saw Williams on the field. However, he’d better get healthy quick or he’ll find himself battling Marc Mariani on the depth chart for return duties.
Rennie Curran (B+) – The new #53 has my attention. After blowing up a Seahawk on special teams, I noticed him on multiple occasions ranging the field. His size could limit him in the NFL, but explosive tacklers with a nose for the ball are always welcome additions to the roster.
Alterraun Verner (A-) – This kid is already a ball-hawk. And ripping an interception in your first appearance only goes to bolster that reputation, especially a pick like that one.
Robert Johnson (C) – He did little to dazzle, but more importantly he did little to disappoint. The Titans did a ton in the draft to improve a secondary that finished 31st in the league, so I look forward to seeing more from this powerful safety.
Rusty Smith (C+) – Looking sharp at times, not a bad first outing. Fisher seems attached to Chris Simms, for the moment. So Smith will have to stand out if he wants to make it to the final roster.
Myron Rolle (C) – Similar to Johnson, Rolle did little to stand out on Sunday night. I believe that he and Johnson are quality depth chart adds, but I would like to see some of that belief backed up on the field.
Marc Mariani (B) – It was nice to see #83 out there again for the Titans. He fielded 7 punts/kicks last night, and without fumbling or bobbling, made good decisions finishing with 117 return yards. Either way Mariani or Williams will be a vast improvement from last year.
David Howard (D) – With the signing of Raheem Brock (and the roster spot he represents) and the quality play from Jovan Haye, Jason Jones, and Sen’Derrick Marks, Howard is probably looking at only auditioning for the practice squad.
Stafon Johnson (A+) – With only 5 touches, Johnson racked up 35 yards and demonstrated the ability to be a great change-of-pace for CJ2K. Then, the football gods struck again and the news is bad (dislocated ankle, out 8-12 weeks). He deserves more than a game ball, he deserves a spot on the Titans roster.
LeGarette Blount (D+) – It took 3 tries for Blount to punch in a touchdown from the 1 yard line. Given his size and potential role, he’s going to have to do better than that from here on out.
Despite the loss and only one preseason game, I’m excited about the Titans and their rookies. Titans football is finally here.