2013 NFL Roster Cuts Review: Tennessee Titans

Aug 29, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Rusty Smith (11) completes a pass against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. The Vikings won 24-23. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports

Rosters are down to 53 players. Let’s take a look at how the Tennessee Titans went from 75 players to 53 (all information from Jim Wyatt of The Tenneseean). These are the 2013 NFL roster cuts and transaction as of Aug. 31.

21 Releases
Rusty Smith (QB)
Jalen Parmele (RB)
Collin Mooney (RB)
Dontel Watkins (WR)
Rashad Ross (WR)
Jack Doyle (TE)
Brandon Barden (TE)
Fernando Velasco (OL)
Daniel Baldridge (OL)
Kasey Studdard (OL)
Zach Clayton (DL)
DaJohn Harris (DL)
Stefan Charles (DL)
Nigel Nicholas (DL)
Tim Shaw (LB)
Scott Solomon (LB)
Jonathan Willard (LB)
Gary Guyton (LB)
Corey Lynch (DB)
Khalid Wooten (DB)
Al Afalava (DB)

1 Injured Reserve with No Recall
Marc Mariani (WR)

Here’s something worth noting:

The Titans kept a minimum of six linebackers. That’s a bit surprising when one considers that three linebackers missed the preseason finale (Akeem Ayers, Zach Brown, Zaviar Gooden) and another one has been oft-injured throughout his career (Colin McCarthy).  Ayers and Brown are expected to return for Week 1. McCarthy should stay healthy. The Titans may seek outside help or rely on Kamerion Wimbley for emergency depth.

Most surprising cut was Velasco. One can assume that the Titans preferred Chris Spencer as a swingman whose preferred position is offensive guard. The Titans already had Rob Turner and Brian Schwenke as centers. Velasco probably wouldn’t have played there. It’s worth noting that Velasco was the last announced release. Not an easy decision.

Mariani was placed on injured reserve with no recall. He’s done for the entire season unless there’s an injury settlement. Mariani is a free agent after this season.

Among the final players to make the roster include Michael Preston, Jackie Battle, Daimion Stafford, Keyunta Dawson and Chris Spencer. The Titans will spend the next few days compiling their practice squad and signing players who may oust some bottom-tier roster members for 53-man roster spots.

Check back at Titan Sized for a complete 53-man roster.