The Tennessee Titans have plenty of exciting roster battles for fans to monitor when training camp begins. Jackson Slater and Cordell Volson will compete for the right guard job. The defense has various edge defenders fighting for reps, including first-round pick Keldric Faulk.
One battle that's potentially flown under the radar is at linebacker. Head coach Robert Saleh has a background of developing high-level linebackers. And it just so happens he hand-picked a rookie second-round selection.
Titans rookie linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. will enter training camp trying to earn playing time. Veteran mainstay Cody Barton stands in his way. If Hill could convince the coaches to let him compete, Barton could feel him breathing down his neck.
Titans rookie LB Anthony Hill Jr. can close the gap on Cody Barton at training camp
The Titans signed Barton to a three-year contract worth $21 million last offseason. He was applauded for the maturity and leadership he brought to a rebuilding team. Barton recorded 81 tackles and a team-high three interceptions.
It was also clear that Barton had athletic limitations in coverage. With Saleh taking over the defense, one can't help but wonder if Barton is an ideal fit for his attacking downhill scheme. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley will also assess Barton's capabilities in this system.
Meanwhile Hill possesses the length, athleticism, and explosiveness Saleh clearly covets at the position. When the Titans traded up to snag Hill during the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, it became immediately clear that he was a Saleh-approved prospect. Now, the Titans will have to decide how much responsibility he can handle at training camp.
Second-round picks aren't always instant contributors. After enjoying positive sessions at OTAs and minicamp, Hill is being tasked with remaining effective and impactful once the pads come on at training camp. If Hill does that, Saleh and Bradley might be willing to insert him into a competition with Barton.
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