4 defensive players to watch in Titans' preseason debut vs. 49ers
By Justin Melo
Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson will officially debut his new-look defense versus the San Francisco 49ers in the team's first preseason game on Saturday evening. Head coach Brian Callahan has consistently confirmed that the starters will play extensively throughout the preseason.
That means Wilson will receive an opportunity to flash some of his defensive tendencies, even if a "vanilla" approach is taken. Regardless of how many defensive starters play, and how much of Wilson's scheme is "protected," there are several talents worth monitoring.
We've identified four Titans on defense that you should particularly monitor versus the 49ers.
T'Vondre Sweat, DT
No Titans player has caused more divisive conversation this summer than rookie second-round pick T'Vondre Sweat. Sweat was sidelined for the majority of the offseason workout program, leading to overreaction and false narratives. But the former Texas Longhorn has been healthy and impressive through every training camp practice thus far.
Sweat will make his official Titans debut versus the 49ers. General manager Ran Carthon drafted him to push and collapse opposing pockets. Jeffery Simmons is not playing on Saturday, meaning Sweat will be the focal point of Tennessee's interior defensive line. The rookie second-round selection can showcase what type of running mate he'll be for Tennessee's superstar defensive tackle.
Jarvis Brownlee Jr., CB
Callahan confirmed the starters will play a "series or two," but we doubt that includes starting cornerbacks L'Jarius Sneed and Chido Awuzie. Sneed is on a workload management plan, and Awuzie is still sidelined with injury. We also know Caleb Farley is out multiple weeks with a hamstring injury.
That should lead to plenty of reps for fifth-round rookie cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. Brownlee has been outstanding at practice, routinely shutting receivers own via one-on-one reps. His physical approach should make for particularly exciting preseason performances.