Titans Training Camp Preview: DL

Defensive line | Quarterbacks| *Wide receivers| Running backs *|Tight ends |Offensive line| *Linebackers| Defensive backs| *Special teams

Position coaches: Tracy Rocker and Keith Millard (pass rush specialist)

Returning: Derrick Morgan, Jurrell Casey, Kamerion Wimbley, Keyunta Dawson, Karl Klug, Mike Martin, DaJohn Harris, Zach Clayton

First camp with Titans: Sammie Hill, Ropati Pitoitua, Lavar Edwards, Thaddeus Gibson, Nigel Nicholas, Stefan Charles, Antonio Johnson (was with Titans in 2007 training camp)

Outlook: The Titans wanted to add size across the defensive line and have done so by signing Sammie Hill, Ropati Pitoitua and Antonio Johnson and drafting Lavar Edwards in the fifth round. Edwards has been projected as somewhat of a sleeper pick who may have not received as much attention before the draft because he was in rotation at LSU. Tennessee hopes adding the size will help against the run on first and second and allow pass rushers to stay fresh to yield big plays and force offenses off the field. Derrick Morgan and Kamerion Wimbley played a high percentage of snaps in 2012 that the Titans may try to reduce this season. The Titans are looking at playing Karl Klug at defensive end more in 2013, and the return of Keyunta Dawson, who played well last preseason but suffered a season-ending hamstring injury three games into the season, should help the Titans' depth.

Things to watch at open training camp practices:Sacking — or even touching — your own quarterback during practices is not allowed, so defensive linemen have to show the ability to get close enough to the quarterback and the discipline to pull up before contact, but the Titans hope fans will see defensive linemen create pressure from multiple places. The additions on the defensive and offensive line should boost daily competition and raise performance on both sides of the ball. There periods where defensive and offensive linemen engage in intense competition drills allow a great view of the intensity that is sometimes obscured during games or total team periods. 

Scheduled practices that are free and open to fans (subject to change):