It has been a long time since the Tennessee Titans' roster felt this unsettled after two preseason games. The third and final exhibition contest versus the Minnesota Vikings on Friday will represent Brian Callahan's last chance to assess things before submitting the initial 53-man roster on Tuesday.
The Titans are going to use their No. 1 spot on the waiver wire to full effect this year. Anyone who doesn't have a starting job should be concerned that Mike Borgonzi and Chad Brinker could see more value in someone who is released next week.
The Titans are going to cut a few players who make their initial roster. Those talents are competing to make the team's practice squad. What is more interesting to consider is which players are hovering right on the borderline between safety and risk.
Titans preseason finale to decide final roster spots at safety
When asked about spots up for grabs this week, Callahan mentioned running back, offensive tackle, safety, and wide receiver. After Tyjae Spears suffered another injury, it makes sense for the team to look at available running backs. Offensive tackle also makes sense because there hasn't been any backup tackle who has stepped up and created a divide.
Wide receiver was slightly confusing, but there is a battle going on at the bottom of the depth chart between James Proche and Xavier Restrepo, which makes some sense. Jha'Quan Jackson is also competing on special teams.
The strangest part of Callahan's response was that he mentioned safety as a position where they might add someone. Right now, the Titans have one of the deepest safety groups in the NFL with Amani Hooker, Xavier Woods, Quandre Diggs, and Kevin Winston.
Behind those four, it seemed to be a given that Mike Brown would make the roster as the team's fifth safety. However, Callahan's comments certainly make it seem like Brown is playing for his roster spot on Friday night. Julius Wood is an excellent special teams player, and Kendell Brooks had a historic pick-six in Week 2 of the preseason.
Brown has been a roster mainstay, leading the Titans in special teams snaps last year. That is a key function for backup defensive backs. Brown has been consistent in that area, placing second in special teams tackles.
Brown is a backup safety with a high floor and strong special teams resume. It will be hard to dethrone him from his spot, but Wood and Brooks have been valiant competitors. Furthermore, a safety who hits the waiver wire may be more enticing.