As the NFL preseason nears its end, the Tennessee Titans are gearing up for their final evaluation game against the Minnesota Vikings. This is a critical juncture for several players on the bubble, vying for a coveted spot on the 53-man roster. Their performance in this game, particularly at their respective positions and on special teams, will significantly influence their future in the league. With competition fierce, these seven Titans must deliver standout performances to keep their NFL dreams alive, especially when considering the current Vikings depth chart.
This article will delve into the specific challenges and opportunities each player faces, highlighting what they need to demonstrate to secure their place on the team. From offensive tackles to cornerbacks, each athlete’s journey is unique, but their goal remains the same: to prove their value and potential to the Titans coaching staff. The pressure is on, and the stakes are high as they prepare to leave it all on the field against the Vikings.
OT Jaelyn Duncan
Jaelyn Duncan has emerged as a strong contender for a roster spot after a solid training camp. Initially seen as an afterthought due to health issues in 2024, Duncan has defied expectations. Coach Brian Callahan has openly discussed Duncan’s potential, acknowledging his shot at making the final 53. His performance against the Vikings will be crucial in solidifying his position.
Duncan needs to showcase his ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes effectively. Consistency and aggression will be key in proving he deserves a spot on the roster. A strong showing could cement his place as a valuable backup tackle.
WR Xavier Restrepo
Xavier Restrepo faces an uphill battle to make the roster, especially with James Proche likely secured. Despite initial hype as an undrafted rookie free agent, Restrepo has struggled to maintain momentum once pads were introduced. His reps with Cam Newton have decreased, furtherdiminishing his chances. However, he still has an outside shot if he can deliver a standout performance against the Vikings.
Restrepo must demonstrate exceptional route-running, secure catches in traffic, and contribute on special teams to grab the coaches’ attention. He needs to make the most of every opportunity and show he can be a reliable asset to the team.
TE Josh Whyle
The Titans are unlikely to keep five tight ends, putting Josh Whyle at risk. With David Martin-Robinson and Thomas Odukoya possessing higher special teams ceilings, Whyle’s days may be numbered. Although he has shown improvement, Whyle needs to elevate his game significantly to secure a roster spot.
Whyle must demonstrate his value as a receiver and blocker. A strong performance in both aspects of the game could sway the coaches in his favor. He needs to show he can be a versatile and reliable option in the tight end room.
NT Timmy Horne
The battle to replace T’Vondre Sweat in the middle of the Titans’ defense is ongoing, and no one has definitively claimed the role. Timmy Horne showed promise in the preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but failed to replicate that performance against the Atlanta Falcons. A standout showing against the Vikings could solidify his position as a valuable backup.
Horne needs to showcase his ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage, pressure the quarterback, and stop the run effectively. Consistency and physicality will be key in proving he can be a reliable presence in the defensive line rotation.
OLB Jaylen Harrell
Jaylen Harrell, a training camp standout in 2024, faces a similar situation as he did last year. He has an opportunity to earn a depth role at edge, with no other player clearly standing out. While veteran Jihad Ward has an advantage, Harrell could work his way into contention with a strong performance against the Vikings.
Harrell must demonstrate his pass-rushing skills, ability to set the edge, and contribution on special teams. A good game could solidify his place as a valuable depth piece on the defense.
S Kendell Brooks
Kendell Brooks has gained momentum after an outstanding performance against the Falcons. A downhill player, Brooks showcased his ball skills and special teams prowess. He is now in contention to be the Titans’ fifth safety, battling with Mike Brown. Brooks is ascending at the right time, making this game against the Vikings crucial.
Brooks needs to continue his strong play, demonstrating his ability to make tackles, cover receivers, and contribute on special teams. A standout performance could secure his spot on the roster.
CB Gabe Jeudy-Lally
With L’Jarius Sneed’s health uncertain, the Titans need to find another reliable cornerback. Gabe Jeudy-Lally underwhelmed in the preseason opener and was quiet against Atlanta. He appears to be behind rookie Marcus Harris on the depth chart heading into the game against the Vikings. Despite his experience in the system, Jeudy-Lally must produce to hold onto a depth role.
Jeudy-Lally needs to demonstrate his coverage skills, ability to make tackles, and contribution on special teams. He must seize this opportunity to prove he can be a valuable asset to the team.
The Tennessee Titans’ final preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings represents a make-or-break moment for several players on the roster bubble. Each of the seven players highlighted—Jaelyn Duncan, Xavier Restrepo, Josh Whyle, Timmy Horne, Jaylen Harrell, Kendell Brooks, and Gabe Jeudy-Lally—faces unique challenges and opportunities as they strive to secure their place on the team. Their performance in this game, combined with their contributions on special teams, will ultimately determine their future with the Titans.
The coaching staff will be closely watching how these players perform under pressure, assessing their ability to execute assignments, make impactful plays, and contribute to the overall success of the team. The stakes are high, and the competition is fierce, making this final preseason game a crucial evaluation point for these aspiring NFL players. As the regular season approaches, these bubble players must leave a lasting impression to keep their NFL dreams alive.
Leave a Reply