Week 2 of Tennessee Titans preseason is in the books, and there are certainly some questions surrounding Robert Saleh's defense. The starters struggled yet again lined up against Seattle's backups. Whether it was through the air or on the ground, Saleh's unit was not impressive. One player however, continues to be a bright spot for the future of this defense.
Titans rookie linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. was undoubtedly the defense's standout player of the night. The former Texas Longhorns defender was flying around all evening long, and did an excellent job of controlling the middle of the field on passing downs. Hill logged a 92.8 grade from Pro Football Focus, making him the highest-graded rookie in the NFL for the second week of preseason action.
If there was one word to describe Hill's performance, it would be disruptive. Saleh and Gus Bradley drew up a blitz in the second half, sending the rookie linebacker straight through the A-gap. He swept right by the center and got to the backfield to record a takedown. In addition to the sack, he also recorded a team-high seven tackles, which included zero missed tackles.
Tennessee Titans rookie linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. sees his hype-meter reach an all-time high after Week 2 preseason performance
Hill's best play of the night occurred when he picked off Seahawks quarterback Jalen Milroe. Hill dropped into coverage when a receiver crossed behind him and sat in his zone. The second-round rookie managed to diagnose the route pattern forming behind him, while also keeping his eyes on the mobile quarterback. Once Milroe threw it, Hill was in perfect position to make the play.
It cannot be overstated how poor this Titans defense was in pass coverage last year. Fans have already gotten glimpses of Cody Barton's lackluster play speed this preseason, which normally results in Barton being one step too late. Hill showcasing his ability to make those plays under the lights certainly checked some boxes for Saleh and Gus Bradley.
Hill will continue to get a large share of snaps at MIKE this Saturday against the Chicago Bears in Tennessee's final preseason matchup. If he goes out and lights it up once again, this coaching staff may have no choice but to officially give him the green dot for the regular-season opener versus the New York Jets.
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