The Tennessee Titans were defeated 24-15 by the Chicago Bears in their Week 3 preseason finale. Head coach Robert Saleh reversed course and decided against playing his starters in the final offseason tune-up. Starting quarterback Cam Ward did not play after impressing in a joint practice with the Bears earlier this week.
That decision allowed backend players fighting for roster spots an extended showcase. Coach Saleh and Mike Borgonzi will now shift attention to finalizing the 53-man roster before Sunday's midday deadline.
The decision to rest the majority of starters had a profound impact. We've identified five winners and two losers as a result. The Titans will now prepare for Week 1 versus the New York Jets.
Tennessee Titans winners and losers from Week 3 loss to Chicago Bears
Winner: Nicholas Singleton, RB
With Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears sitting, rookie running back Nicholas Singleton got the start in the backfield. The former Penn State standout routinely ran hard, finding chunks of yardage while displaying leg drive and vision. Singleton finished with 48 yards via nine touches.
Loser: Keydrain Calligan, CB
Much was made about the Titans defense allowing two explosive touchdowns to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2 of the preseason. Well, it took just one defensive play to suffer another coverage breakdown. The Bears' first play from scrimmage was a 97-yard touchdown pass from Tyson Bagent to rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas. Titans cornerback Keydrain Calligan, who is attempting to make the 53-man roster, got his eyes caught in the backfield and got beat deep.
Winner: Jacob Martin, EDGE
Veteran defensive end Jacob Martin was one of few Titans starters to take the field. He consistently got pressure versus backup offensive tackles who were outmatched by him. Martin also made a heads-up play by recovering a fumble after a bad exchange. He may be among the more underrated Titans heading into the campaign.
Winner: Joey Slye, K
Kicker Joey Slye totally dominated all three exhibition contests. He concluded the preseason having gone 11-for-11 and made yet another 56-yard attempt versus the Bears. Slye has been absolute money since struggling during the Blue & White scrimmage several weeks ago.
Winner: James Williams, LB
Linebacker James Williams made plays all preseason long. The former Miami Hurricanes safety forced a fumble in coverage by punching the football loose. The Bears recovered, but it was yet another impressive display for Williams. He has firmly played himself into a role in Saleh's defense.
Loser: Hendon Hooker, QB
With both Ward and Mitch Trubisky resting, Will Levis played the entire first half, and fourth-string quarterback Hendon Hooker got the second half. Levis was the significantly better quarterback of the two. Hooker finished 5-of-8 with a fumble and was generally inaccurate and hesitant. He's likely getting cut on Sunday.
Winner: Xavier Restrepo, WR
Sophomore fan favorite Xavier Restrepo is attempting to make the 53-man roster. He arguably helped himself on Saturday despite getting some average quarterback play. Restrepo converted a team-high six targets into four receptions for 71 yards. He consistently gets open as a QB-friendly option.
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