Dec 2, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; The Tennessee Titans offensive squad huddles before a play against the Houston Texans during the first half at LP Field. The Texans beat the Titans 24-10. Mandatory credit: Don McPeak-US Presswire
Listed below are five reasons (in no particular order) to make sure you check out what the Titans do during the 2013 NFL season.
- Jake Locker– Many people believe that this is a make-or-break season for Locker. While I do believe he needs to show improvements, I don’t feel like he needs a playoff berth to keep his job. If the Titans finish just outside of the playoff hunt, Locker will have cemented his starting job for at least one more season.
- Chris Johnson– I get a kick out of those who say the last two season have been “down years” for Johnson. If averaging 1,145 yards the past two seasons is underperforming, I’ll take it. However, I do expect CJ2K to return to a form closer to 2009. I don’t expect 2,000 yards, but 1,400-1,600 yards and 10-12 touchdowns would be a fantastic year.
- The Receiving Corps. – What has been a sore spot on the Titans roster in recent years has become a very deep and competitive position. To me, this is the most compelling position to watch during training camp. The Titans will have to make some touch cuts that could include hardworking veterans. Once the dust from training camp settles, the Titans will head into Pittsburgh with the deepest, most talented receiving core in franchise history
- The Linebackers- In my very biased opinion, Akeem Ayers, Colin McCarthy, and Zach Brown make up the best young line-backing core in football. Keep an eye on McCarthy’s health as he missed nine games last year. Furthermore, Zaviar Gooden is a nice piece on certain packages. If they all remain healthy, they will have the biggest influence on whether or not this defense gets nasty again.
- The Safeties- Bernard Pollard and George Wilson were two free-agent acquisitions that should solidify the back end of the Titans defense in 2013. Their addition will free up Michael Griffin to play the way he is most comfortable. This has suddenly become a deep position as well. Long gone are the days of Donnie Nickey.
Agree? Disagree? Let me hear it on Twitter @Gramola89