Pass Rushing Depth
Arden Key's six-game suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy has thrown the depth chart at a position of weakness into a frenzy. On paper, the Titans lack pass-rushers with pedigree to aptly survive Key's absence. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson has nonetheless expressed confidence in the players on the roster, meaning competition for snaps is wide open.
Rashad Weaver is the overwhelming favorite to claim Key's starting role. The 2021 fourth-round pick is playing in a new scheme in a contract year. Weaver began his 2002 sophomore season red-hot by recording 4.0 sacks in his first four games, but only managed another 1.5 quarterback takedowns through the conclusion. The ex Pittsburgh Panther didn't record a sack in 2023.
Shane Ray is a real wild card. The 2015 first-rounder has made a handful of standout plays in training camp, but hasn't been a meaningful NFL player since 2016, last sacked an NFL quarterback in 2018, and spent 2021-22 playing with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League. Ray is attempting to write one of the crazier comeback stories in recent NFL memory, but the Titans are seemingly providing him with an opportunity.
The other pass rushers that should see considerable snaps versus the 49ers are Caleb Murphy, Thomas Rush, and Jaylen Harrell. Murphy made the roster last year after dominating the preseason. Rush was the standout during the offseason workout program, and Harrell, a seventh-round rookie, has consistently flashed in practice.
Head coach Brian Callahan praised Harrell's training camp performances on Thursday, and singled him out as a player he's looking forward to watching on Saturday.