2013-14 Tennessee Titans Training Camp Preview: Linebackers

Nov.11, 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Tennessee Titans middle linebacker Colin McCarthy (52) tackles Miami Dolphins running back Daniel Thomas (33) during the first quarter at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-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 started out the defensive previews with defensive linemen. Next up: linebackers

2013-14 Tennessee Titans Training Camp Participants: Linebackers
Akeem Ayers
Patrick Bailey
Zach Brown
Moise Fokou
Zaviar Gooden
Greg Jones
Colin McCarthy
Tim Shaw
Scott Solomon
Jonathan Willard

Storylines:

No. 1: Colin McCarthy, Moise Fokou and the Situation at Middle Linebacker
One of the main headlines comes with McCarthy vs. Fokou. When the Titans signed Fokou, most fans assumed that the Titans were just searching for improved depth behind the oft-injured McCarthy. During mini camps, Fokou has been so impressive that there are rumors that Fokou will challenge McCarthy for the starting job.

While McCarthy should get the starting nod, the Titans needed a better backup than Barrett Ruud or Shaw.

No. 2: Depth
The starters are set (Ayers, Brown and McCarthy/Fokou). Another lock to make the team: Gooden. After that, it becomes a question on whether they want to load up on specialists (Shaw, Bailey, Jones), projects (Solomon, Willard) or a combination of both.

Keep in mind that Alan Lowry was fired because of the coverage units from special teams. Could Mike Munchak have his sights set on major personnel changes in those areas? If Solomon shows anything as an outside linebacker, does versatility keep him on the 53-man roster?

No. 3: What Kind of Impact Will Chet Parlavecchio Have on LBs?
One of the most peculiar offseason moves came when Parlavecchio was promoted from special teams assistant coach to linebackers coach. That promotion occurred shortly after Lowry (special teams coach) was terminated. A few years ago, Parlavecchio was coaching teenagers. Is he capable of getting the most out of a linebacker core with young players such as Ayers (third year), McCarthy (third year) Brown (second year) and Gooden (rookie)?