The Tennessee Titans just wrapped up a joint practice with the Chicago Bears. It was their third and final joint practice with an opponent after previously scrimmaging with the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks. The Titans will now play versus the Bears in Saturday's preseason finale.
It was a competitive practice, featuring both highs and lows for the Titans' offense and defense. Saturday's exhibition game will represent the final evaluation opportunity before GM Mike Borgonzi submits his initial 53-man roster on Sunday. It's a quick turnaround.
We've identified the winners and losers from Thursday's joint practice with the Bears.
Studs and Duds from the Tennessee Titans' joint practice with the Chicago Bears
Stud: Carnell Tate, WR
It was the Carnell Tate show for the Titans at joint practice with the Bears. The fourth overall selection responded in a major way to what critics described as a quiet stretch of training camp for him. Tate saw double-digit targets (12) from Cam Ward, securing seven receptions and two touchdowns, per Easton Freeze. He routinely was Ward's go-to read on dropbacks, as the second-year quarterback showed a willingness to pepper his new weapon with opportunities. It was a big, big practice for their building connection.
Stud: Tony Pollard, RB
Veteran running back Tony Pollard is being utilized in a variety of ways by new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. His versatility was on full display at Thursday's practice. Pollard went untouched down the sideline for a 50-yard touchdown on a well-blocked running play, per various local reporters in attendance. Later, the experienced playmaker caught a deep touchdown on a wheel route pass from Ward. Daboll is ensuring his running backs are involved in the passing game.
Dud: Will Levis, QB
Titans No. 3 quarterback Will Levis sounded like his usual chaotic self at practice. On one touchdown pass, the former Kentucky quarterback should have been intercepted, but a Herculean effort from the pass catcher somehow converted the attempt into a score. Both Ward and Mitch Trubisky were significantly more impactful and efficient. Levis' status is worth monitoring with 53-man roster cuts looming this weekend.
Stud: David Martin-Robinson, TE
It was tight end David Martin-Robinson who bailed Levis out of an ill-advised throw in the end zone. The former undrafted standout beat a defender at the catch point to make a highlight-worthy grab. With rookie Jaren Kanak on season-ending IR, Martin-Robinson has an outstanding opportunity to make the Titans' 53-man roster. His effort in Thursday's practice increased his chances.
Stud: Tony Adams, S
Reserve safety Tony Adams helped end practice by intercepting Bears quarterback Caleb Williams to end a two-minute drill. The Titans appreciate Adams' knowledge of their defensive playbook. His experience having previously played for Robert Saleh has been an asset. By all accounts, it was a fantastic interception, made on the goal-line with 1:25 left to play, per Steve Layman. Ward hit Chimere Dike for a touchdown on the other side to conclude the Titans' two-minute drill.
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