NASHVILLE – The Titans wrapped up the offseason program this week.
Players are scheduled to report to training camp on July 23, with the first practice scheduled for July 24.
Before looking ahead, I'm going to roll out ten Titans who caught my attention this offseason:
WR Calvin Ridley: He looked fast and explosive, like a player who could be a real difference-maker in 2024. Ridley will have more time to settle in when camp begins.
QB Will Levis: It's impossible for a quarterback not to get your attention. While not perfect, Levis showed improvement. Now it's about mastering the offense.
RBs Tyjae Spears/Tony Pollard: OK, we're cheating a bit here, naming two guys. But coaches have talked about how it's going to be a one-two punch in the running game this fall, and both excelled this offseason.
LB Jack Gibbens: When the Titans selected Cedric Gray in the third round, many folks figured it would be just a matter of time before he unseated Gibbens. But Gibbens, who had an interception in OTAs, doesn't look like a guy ready to hand the job over.
TE Josh Whyle: As a rookie, an injury set Whyle back as he was trying to gain momentum. A year later he looks sturdier and more confident, and that could result in a much bigger 2024.
G Saahdiq Charles: Evaluating offensive linemen in shorts and jerseys is tough, but Charles has looked the part with his rugged approach. He's going to be a factor in the battle for the right guard spot.
OT JC Latham: Perhaps even more impressive than his athletic ability and brute strength has been Latham's work ethic and maturity. Watching him, it's hard to believe he's just 21 years old.
OLB Arden Key: In his second season with the Titans, Key is looking for an even bigger role this fall, and his approach this offseason has him off to a good start. Key has provided energy while being an every day participant.
CB Roger McCreary: While I have no doubts about the impact veterans L'Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie will make this offseason, McCreary perhaps made the biggest strides of the bunch during an offseason of improvement.
CB Gabe Jeudy-Lally: I must admit, this one came as a surprise to me. Signed as an undrafted free agent after playing in college at Vanderbilt and Tennessee, Jeudy-Lally made some plays this offseason against good competition. He's worth keeping an eye on in camp.
Plus, one assistant coach:
O-line coach Bill Callahan: I've watched the offensive linemen more this offseason than any other year, in large part because of the presence of the veteran o-line coach. Callahan has his guys focused on fundamentals, and being better.
