2013-14 Tennessee Titans Training Camp Preview: Wide Receivers
July 29, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans wide receiver Michael Preston (14) catches a pass during training camp workout at the Titans training facility at Baptist Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-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.
We’ve covered quarterbacks and running backs. Let’s move on to the wide receivers.
2013-14 Tennessee Titans Training Camp Participants: Wide Receivers
Diondre Borel
Kenny Britt
Travis Harvey
Justin Hunter
Marc Mariani
Michael Preston
Rashad Ross
Roberto Wallace
Kevin Walter
Nate Washington
Dontel Watkins
Damian Williams
Kendall Wright
Storylines:
No. 1: Which Receivers Are More Than Training Camp Fodder?
At the very least, eight of those 13 wide receivers have a legitimate chance of making the 53-man roster. Britt, Wright and Hunter are locks. That leaves five receivers fighting for anywhere between two to four positions. Those receivers with the best chance include Washington, Williams, Preston, Walter and Mariani.
No. 2: How Much Will Kenny Britt Contribute to the Offense?
A contract year is all the motivation that Britt should need to remain out of trouble and start reaching his potential. Since tearing his ACL in 2011, Britt has been a shell of his former self. Now that he’s two years removed from that injury and out of Chris Palmer’s offensive system, can he enjoy a breakout season right before payday is due?
No. 3: Will Justin Hunter Make an Impact during his Rookie Season?
It’s not uncommon for rookie wide receivers to need time to acclimate to the NFL. Hunter has already missed much of his offseason work because of injuries. Like Britt, he’s about two years removed from a torn ACL. How long will it take before he’s ready to make a big impact on this offense?
No. 4: Will Broken Leg Cost Marc Mariani his Roster Spot?
When Mariani suffered a gruesome leg injury during a preseason game last August, few people expected Darius Reynaud to perform so well as a return specialist. Despite some control issues, Reynaud had three returns for touchdowns. Furthermore, Reynaud’s versatility made him a decent little gadget player in the backfield.
A good training camp should mean that Mariani still has a job. It just may not come with the Titans.