NASHVILLE – Nate Davis won't lie.
In his first NFL training camp a year ago, the Titans offensive guard had his share of struggles while adjusting to the next level. He missed time with an injury, and when the regular season started, he then found himself among the team's inactives for the first three games as he worked his way back.
On Thursday, Davis admitted there were times when he felt like he was just "hanging on." It wasn't until the back half of the season until he settled down and started feeling comfortable, he said.
"Last year, it was more like, just hanging on," Davis said with a smile on Thursday. "There were a lot of things going on, head spinning, and just trying to get the plays down and all that stuff."
Davis found himself, and the Titans realized they'd found themselves a good one in the third-round pick from the 2019 NFL Draft.
Davis played in his first NFL game in Week 4 in Atlanta before taking over as the team's starter at right guard in Week 5 against the Bills. Davis ended up starting the final 12 games of the regular season, and all three of the team's playoff contests.
He was part of an offensive line that paved the way for running back Derrick Henry's 1,540-yard season, while also protecting quarterback Ryan Tannehill during a year when he led the NFL in passer rating, and the team to victories.
Looking back, Davis feels like a different person in this year's camp. He's confident, and comfortable, as he heads into Year 2.
"My confidence has definitely shot up, that's for sure," Davis said. "That was probably the biggest thing from last year, just understanding that I belong. Really, the sky is the limit for me.
"This year, it is just focusing on the little things. I have the plays down for the most part, it is just playing faster and understanding what our offense is and doing everything I can to help this team."
Davis, who played collegiately at Charlotte, said he's also a lot sturdier. Getting stronger was one of his top priorities in his second year and he spent the offseason in Nashville and back in Charlotte working to improve his game.
While he's still in the 310-pound range, the 6-foot-3 guard said his core strength has improved where he can anchor down and keep the pocket clean in practices, and game days.
"I feel like I got bounced around a little bit last year, so I just wanted to bulk up a little bit and hone in on the little details with our technique and stuff like that," Davis said. "I feel stronger on the field, and everything is starting to slow down.
"So far, I feel good. Just learning some of the details and getting comfortable with the guys. I feel a lot quicker on the field, that's for sure."
