The Tennessee Titans are holding a competition at training camp for a starting job at inside linebacker. Veteran free-agent signing Cody Barton has been outstanding at practice. Opposite him has been second-year defender James Williams. Williams has consistently received first-team reps, indicating this isn't much of a competition at all.
Despite Williams' momentum, linebackers coach Frank Bush isn't ready to make a decision. After Sunday's practice, Coach Bush claimed the defense is still "fighting that battle." Mentioned at the very end of his insightful answer was veteran linebacker Otis Reese, the team's most tenured defender at the position (believe it or not).
Reese wasn't healthy throughout OTAs and minicamp. That allowed Williams to gain an upper hand in the competition, one he hasn't since forfeited. Entering a crucial August, with three preseason games and joint practices approaching, Reese is firmly on the roster bubble.
Titans LB Otis Reese IV is on the roster bubble entering August
Since returning from injury at training camp, Reese has been consistently working with the reserves defense. Once a fan favorite for a starting job, the former undrafted free agent has fallen behind in the competition. Reese is instead fighting for a roster spot.
Sophomore linebacker Cedric Gray appears ahead of Reese on the depth chart. New addition Anfernee Orji has also impressed at practice. Orji has notably been shouted out by Coach Bush and Brian Callahan at recent practices. He's firmly in the mix to make the 53-man roster.
Reese flashed intriguing ability in previous seasons when given opportunities to start on defense. General manager Mike Borgonzi brought in a slew of linebackers this offseason. Now playing under a new regime, Reese has seemingly fallen behind on the depth chart. A fate-deciding August awaits the ex Ole Miss standout. His 53-man roster chances aren't looking good.