The Tennessee Titans possess several intriguing options at cornerback heading into 2025. With L'Jarius Sneed and Darrell Baker Jr. nursing injuries at mandatory minicamp, competition for reps was fierce. One of the biggest beneficiaries was rookie cornerback Marcus Harris. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson needs to further sort out the position at training camp.
A local reporter in attendance at minicamp practices noticed Harris again and again. Hot Read Podcast host JT Ruhnke heaped praise on Harris, pointing out that the former California Golden Bear appears to be endearing himself to the coaching staff.
"Marcus Harris continues to get a lot of work in 7s and 11s, seems like they really like the 6th rounder from Cal," Ruhnke wrote.
Harris was the 183rd overall selection in this year's draft. The former Idaho transfer played cornerback, both inside and outside, at the college level. Harris projects to have similar versatility in the pros, with that alignment-flex ability helping Wilson sort through the roles in his secondary.
Marcus Harris gives the Titans a good problem to have at cornerback
When healthy, the Titans are expected to start Sneed and Jarvis Brownlee Jr. at boundary cornerback. Roger McCreary plays the nickel. Harris could compete with Baker Jr. for snaps in the next-man-up role. Sneed's ongoing quad and knee issues means Harris could find himself in a larger-than-expected role.
Expect Harris to make a strong push in training camp.
Harris played his best football at California this past season after transferring to the program from Idaho. Harris recorded seven pass breakups and two interceptions. He also accumulated 46 total tackles.
The Titans were also in attendance at Harris' pro day, where he put forth an eye-popping athletic showcase. The Portland, Oregon native ran the 40-yard dash in approximately 4.39 seconds after leaping a 10-foot-10 broad jump. The performance left a positive impression on Tennessee's scouting staff.
The Titans possess question marks at cornerback given Sneed's uncertain health. Harris may provide the defense with a solution, if one is needed. Expect Harris to exceed expectations as a rookie.