One of the biggest surprises of training camp has been just how well the Tennessee Titans' linebackers have performed.
Cody Barton has been a vocal leader on and off the field. Barton has been a big part of making Cam Ward's life tough over the first two weeks of training camp. Despite being an under-the-radar addition, Barton has positioned himself to be a lynchpin of this defense in 2025 and beyond.
Barton's spot on the depth chart is set in stone, but the big question was which linebacker would win the training camp battle for the other starting job? It didn't take long for James Williams to emerge as the leader in the clubhouse, and if he can sustain his level of play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in joint practice on Thursday, this "competition" could be over before it even started.
Some people may think that is premature, but coaches often play their starters more in these joint practices than they will in preseason games. Why? Because they value these controlled practice reps more than the reps they might get during a game.
Titans LB James Williams can solidify himself in joint practice versus Buccaneers
Standing out against an excellent Buccaneers offense in Thursday's joint practice won't be an easy task. Dennard Wilson's Titans defense is going to have to compete against one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, even though they are missing left tackle Tristan Wirfs. Even if Williams manages to avoid the offensive line, he still has to contend with Bucky Irving at running back and Cade Otton at tight end.
Between covering those two in the passing game and beating blockers as a run defender, Williams is going to have to show vast improvement over the admirable showing he had as a rookie in 2024. However, Williams and Barton have been so good during training camp that fans should start getting cautiously optimistic that these two will be able to handle their own and make some plays.
Joint practice with the Bucs will be a measuring stick for the Titans and the progress they believe they've made. On paper, there is a clear talent disparity between the two teams. The Titans' only hope to shine this week (and this season) is if players like Williams step up and develop into difference makers.
Those are the kinds of things that prove that your team is moving in the right direction.