The Tennessee Titans entered OTAs earlier this week lacking clarity on two notable positions across the offensive line. Head coach Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll are figuring out who will start at right guard and center this season. Sophomore blocker Jackson Slater is among those competing.
The Titans signed veteran center Austin Schlottmann in free agency, who previously played for Daboll in New York. They also drafted sixth-round pick Pat Coogan. At right guard, veteran free-agent addition Cordell Volson and fifth-round rookie Fernando Carmona are on the roster.
Meanwhile Slater has been viewed as an interior blocker with center-guard flexibility. Finding out where the Titans primarily see Slater is key to figuring out how the competitions are truly shaking out. Coach Saleh answered that question following Thursday's OTA practice.
Tennessee Titans head coach Robert Saleh clarifies where Jackson Slater is playing
"We're allowing him [Jackson Slater] to work into that competition in regards to that right guard spot," Saleh said during Thursday's presser. "He also has the flexibility, we're helping him in regards to [playing] center too. But we're giving him every opportunity to win that right guard spot."
It sounds like the Titans' right guard job will come down to Slater, Volson, and Carmona. The fifth-round rookie probably isn't seriously contending to start in Week 1. Saleh's comments make Slater the overwhelming favorite to replace Kevin Zeitler in 2026.
The Titans drafted Slater with the 167th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The small-school Sacramento State player was impressive at last year's Senior Bowl leading up to the pre-draft process. He essentially redshirted for the Titans as a rookie, though his performance in Week 18 was notable.
Slater replaced an injured Zeitler early in a meaningless regular-season finale and played admirably. Pro Football Focus credited him with playing 34 snaps in his only offensive appearance of the season. Slater didn't give up a sack and was rewarded with an excellent 79.2 grade in pass protection. The eye test indicated he played well.
The Titans' uncertain offensive line situation would benefit greatly from Slater developing into a worthy starter. The second-year Day Three pick is getting every opportunity to play himself into a notable role. It's up to Slater to take advantage.
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