The Tennessee Titans have a massive week ahead with the 53-man roster deadline looming at the end of August. They'll hold their first joint practice on Tuesday in California with the San Francisco 49ers. Two days later on Thursday, the Titans will meet the 49ers for their opening preseason contest.
They've also held several padded practices at training camp. Prior to traveling for joint practice and the preseason opener, they hosted the Blue & White Scrimmage for fans at Nissan Stadium on Friday. With each passing event, general manager Mike Borgonzi is getting closer to settling 53-man roster decisions.
Position battles are slowly starting to settle. Borgonzi must submit his initial 53-man roster on Sunday, Aug. 30 at 5 p.m. CT. We have our latest roster projection before the preseason starts.
Tennessee Titans 53-man roster projection: Before preseason Week 1
Quarterbacks: Cam Ward, Mitch Trubisky
Cam Ward is executing Brian Daboll's offense with precision and timing, while still showcasing his gunslinger mentality. Mitch Trubisky struggled at a few recent practices, but appears locked into the backup role. We maintain belief the Titans will trade Will Levis, though they could keep him on the roster if no deal materializes.
Running backs: Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, Nicholas Singleton, Kalel Mullings
Tony Pollard is his typical reliable self. Tyjae Spears has been explosive and dynamic, and the Titans hope he'll be healthy this season. Kalel Mullings has arguably been the best of the reserve running backs. Rookie Nicholas Singleton moves incredibly well for his size, though a recent fumble at practice was a big no-no.
Wide receivers: Carnell Tate, Wan'Dale Robinson, Calvin Ridley, Chimere Dike, Elic Ayomanor, Bryce Oliver
Elic Ayomanor has been the Titans' biggest winner of training camp to date. Carnell Tate, Wan'Dale Robinson, and Calvin Ridley have also been impressive. Ward should have multiple receiving weapons at his disposal this season. Bryce Oliver continues to be the in-house favorite for the sixth spot due to his special teams value.
Tight ends: Gunnar Helm, Daniel Bellinger, David Martin-Robinson, Jaren Kanak
Gunnar Helm and Daniel Bellinger will both be very involved in Daboll's offense. Rookie Jaren Kanak has flashed pass-catching athleticism and brings raw upside to the position. David Martin-Robinson gets the slight nod over Kylen Granson for the fourth and final roster spot at tight end.
Offensive line: Dan Moore, Peter Skoronski, Austin Schlottmann, Cordell Volson, JC Latham, Austin Deculus, Jackson Slater, Pat Coogan, Fernando Carmona
Dan Moore's recent injury scare highlighted how concerning the Titans' swing tackle situation is, with Austin Deculus and Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson being below par. Cordell Volson and Jackson Slater continue to battle for the right guard job. Rookies Pat Coogan and Fernando Carmona both make the 53-man roster.
Defensive line: Jeffery Simmons, John Franklin-Myers, Solomon Thomas, Jordan Elliott, Jackie Marshall
Jeffery Simmons could be elite in Robert Saleh's scheme. John Franklin-Myers is also expected to add playmaking ability to the front. Solomon Thomas has been a huge asset. Jordan Elliott will play notable snaps, and rookie Jackie Marshall also (barely) makes the cut.
EDGE: Jermaine Johnson II, Femi Oladejo, Jacob Martin, Keldric Faulk, Jaylen Harrell
Jermaine Johnson II and Jacob Martin have been very consistent at camp. Their familiarity with Saleh's system helps. Rookie Keldric Faulk is making strides, and the Titans believe Femi Oladejo will take a step forward as a sophomore. Jaylen Harrell has also flashed the same pass-rushing upside he finished last season with.
Linebacker: Cedric Gray, Cody Barton, Anthony Hill Jr., James Williams Sr., Dorian Mausi
James Williams Sr. has been a revelation at recent practices, forcing multiple turnovers. Rookie Anthony Hill Jr. recently had an impressive two-interception day. Starters Cedric Gray and Cody Barton are plugging along. Special teams ace Dorian Mausi also claims a spot.
Cornerback: Alontae Taylor, Cor'Dale Flott, Marcus Harris, Joshua Williams, Micah Robinson, Nazeeh Johnson
Alontae Taylor and Cor'Dale Flott have been as advertised as the boundary cornerbacks. Marcus Harris is the unquestioned nickel and even has a specialized position coach. The Titans have done quite a bit of roster churning here, but we have Micah Robinson and Nazeeh Johnson nabbing two spots.
Safety: Amani Hooker, Kevin Winston Jr., Tony Adams, Jerrick Reed II
Amani Hooker and Kevin Winston Jr. should form an exciting and effective duo at safety. The Titans appreciate veteran free-agent signing Tony Adams, who knows Saleh's system well from their shared New York Jets days. Jerrick Reed II is kept for special teams purposes in this scenario.
Special teams: Joey Slye (K), Tommy Townsend (P), Morgan Cox (LS)
The Titans need consistency from placekicker Joey Slye this season. Tommy Townsend was signed in free agency to replace Johnny Hekker at punter. The ageless Morgan Cox is still an elite long snapper. There isn't any competition on special teams.
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