NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Titans have signed defensive back Darrius Sims, who played several positions at Vanderbilt during his collegiate career.
In his final season at Vandy, Sims played in 12 games. He was the team's top kick specialist, ranked among its leading rushers and hauled in catches as a wide receiver. He finished the year with 271 rushing yards and 61 receiving yards on five catches.
Sims also established a new team record for all-time kick return yardage, finishing with 2,496 career yards.
Sims took part in the Titans rookie minicamp back in May, the afternoon after he graduated from the school. He was not immediately signed at the time.
"Today was a frenzy,'' Sims said back in May. "I woke up at 6:45 a.m., had to be at Vandy early for the graduation, walked, and then rushed over here. I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to do both. And I thank the Titans organization for letting me take part in the graduation and dedicating that to my family. Their understanding helped the whole situation out."
The Titans allowed Sims to miss the morning walk-through back in May. He was on the field Friday afternoon, working at left and right cornerback. At Vandy, Sims played on offense and defense during his career, and was a dynamic return man.
"It has been surreal, to have this chance to be out here," Sims said back in May. "All my life I have been praying for an opportunity like this and to have an opportunity, I am so thankful. Now I just have to be consistent and work as hard as I can."
During his 47 game career for the Commodores, Sims tallied 108 kickoff returns, 13 tackles, one interception, 523 rushing yards and 185 receiving yards. Sims played his high school football at Whitehaven in Memphis, Tenn.
To make room for Sims on the roster, the Titans waived injured linebacker Kourtnei Brown.
The Titans practice against the Panthers on Thursday at 9:15 a.m..
The Titans practice against the Carolina Panthers on Day 19 of the team's training camp at Saint Thomas Sports Park. (Photos: Gary Glenn)
