The Tennessee Titans entered training camp thinking James Williams would be the starting linebacker opposite free-agent signing Cody Barton. It wasn't until multiple weeks into camp and the preseason that fellow sophomore Cedric Gray began emerging as a contender. Gray eventually won the offseason position battle, and hasn't looked back since.
Gray has dominated snaps at linebacker from Week 1 onward. In recent contests, the former North Carolina standout has especially played an outstanding brand of football. It's been earning him praise from head coach Brian Callahan.
Gray's rookie campaign was completely derailed by injury. The early portion of his sophomore offseason began rather disappointingly, with him backing up Williams. Gray's moment has finally arrived and he's breaking out for Dennard Wilson's defense in epic fashion.
Titans LB Cedric Gray is breaking out right before our very eyes
The Titans were embarrassed by the Houston Texans in Week 4, losing 26-0 in a shutout. Gray was a lone bright spot. The second-year off-ball linebacker recorded a career-high 17 tackles. In the Week 5 thrilling come-from-behind victory over the Arizona Cardinals, Gray built on that performance with another 12 takedowns.
Heading into Sunday's Week 6 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders, Gray is tied for third in the NFL in tackles with 48 takedowns. He's climbed that leaderboard with consecutive eye-popping displays. The Titans will need Gray to replicate those showings against the Raiders and their downhill rushing attack that features exciting rookie ball-carrier Ashton Jeanty and not much else on offense.
The Titans entered this rebuilding season needing to find more long-term solutions on a roster that remains in its developmental phase. Gray is currently playing like a multi-year starter. Considering he's on an affordable rookie contract through 2027, that's phenomenal news for Titans GM Mike Borgonzi. Gray's breakout is occurring at the opportune moment.