NASHVILLE – The start of Titans training camp is now just days away.
Players and coaches are already back in the building at Saint Thomas Sports Park, and they'll be on the field for practices soon.
We'll keep you updated here.
And we'll keep answering questions here in the mailbag.
Let's go…
Here's the link to ask questions: CLICK HERE.
John Grasso from Dakota Dunes, South Dakota
Question: Jim. Last year at this time many predicted that Amani Hooker wouldn't make the Titans roster, then last season something clicked, and he's now penciled in as a starter by many websites. What changed in his game or the scheme to make him successful?
Jim: Hey John. Not sure who you were reading about him potentially not making the roster last year. Heading into year 2, he was never going anywhere. Amani got more opportunities last year, and he took advantage of them. He tied for the team lead in interceptions (4), and he made plays. With Kenny Vaccaro gone, Amani is projected to start at safety opposite Kevin Byard this year. He's more comfortable in the scheme, and he's lost some weight to make himself faster and sleeker. I'm expecting him to really come into his own this season.
Kirk Maddox from Calvert City, Kentucky
Question: Hey Jim I haven't seen if this has happened but did the Titans sign their draft picks of Elijah Molden and Monty Rice?
Jim: Hey Kirk. Elijah reached a deal with the team on Thursday, and Monty reached a deal with the team on Saturday morning. A lot of the deals for third-round picks across the league were moving slow until just recently. All of the team's draft picks are now under contract.
Sylvester Buda from Gallatin, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim. I've been a fan of yours for a long time, and I appreciate your hard work for the team and fans! My question is regarding our defensive coaching staff: How much decision-making power does Jim Schwartz have? Please describe his role in our defense. Thanks again and have a good one!
Jim: Thanks, Sylvester. Up until this point, for Schwartz has been used as a resource for the other defensive coaches. He's been on the field in practices, and in the building for meetings. But he's deferring to defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, and it's very clear the defense will be Bowen's show – with Mike Vrabel also in his ear and very involved.
Logan Stafford from Memphis, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim, hope all is well. I was wondering how Adam Coon the wrestler is doing. I don't know if he'll make the roster, but I bet no one can move that man. His core is unbelievable, to wrestle at that level, he basically is in the most perfect shape he can be in. How is he doing? I imagine if he can learn hand placement he could probably move some people around! Have a good one!!
Jim: Hey Logan. Coon looks the part. He's big and athletic. But he's very much a work in progress, and I think he's a longshot to make the roster. His technique needs a lot of work, but that was expected. The plan is to continue developing him and see how it goes moving forward. A more realistic goal for him would be the practice squad.
Tom Miller from Merritt Island, Florida
Question: Greetings Jim! My question is about the two Florida practices to be held on Aug 18 and 19. When I drive over from the east coast of Florida for our late lunch, can I attend both of these practices? If so, including the location of the practices would be handy since I'd rent a hotel room for the night near the facility. Thanks, you remain the best! Titan Up!
Jim: Hey Tom. Well, I did some digging and found this on Buccaneers.com when they released their training camp dates: "The Buccaneers (have) announced their 2021 training camp dates, which include 16 practices that will have fans in attendance at the AdventHealth Training Center. In 2020, the team could not allow fans into camp practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, fans are permitted but the number each day is capped due to ongoing health and safety protocols; as a result, there will be no access for general public viewing and attendance will be limited to season pass members, luxury suite owners, Stadium Club members, premium seat holders and sponsors, prioritized by tenure on a first-come basis." So, obviously that's not great news for Titans fans wanting to watch practices in Tampa. The story I read also includes this info: Those unable to attend practices can still view the beginning of each of those 16 workouts through the team's "Training Camp Live" show, which will be carried on Buccaneers.com as well as the Bucs' YouTube channel, Facebook page and app. Sorry again for what appears to be bad news. If I hear anything different, I'll let you know.
Richard Harris from Orange Park, Florida
Question: I'm from Tennessee and grew up a Vols fan and became an instant Titans fan when Tennessee landed this team. I currently live in Florida and love it here but will always be a Tennessee fan. So, just wondering if the Titans were looking to get a better backup quarterback or future starting quarterback? I really like and believe in Tannehill but he is a 10 year veteran and not getting any younger.
Jim: Hey Richard. Hope all is well. Tannehill is this team's present, and future. The team is banking on him playing for many years to come. Right now, Logan Woodside and DeShone Kizer are battling to be his back-up.
Jefferey Fradsham from Crewe, Virginia
Question: Jim, good day! I must say, I am confused about the lack of confidence a lot of Titan fans show in Logan Woodside. I think they should read the pre-draft scouting reports on him. after I read a few of them, I can see why the Titans staff is high on him. I think your readers should read up on him, they would probably be a little more happy to have him on board. roll, titans, roll!
Jim: Hey Jefferey. I completely understand why fans have some doubts. Other than seeing him in the preseason and at camp, he hasn't been able to prove himself to the fan base a lot. But believe me, if the coaches didn't believe in him, he wouldn't be in the position he's in – a play away from being the team's starting QB.
Jim Williams from Athens, Alabama
Question: Jim. How are the Titans doing in getting players vaccinated? As a long-time fan and season ticket holder I'm going to be pretty ticked if we lose a game because of unvaccinated players in COVID protocols. Go Titans!!
Jim: Hey Jim. The team hasn't disclosed that information. Vrabel has a presser on Tuesday, so I'm sure he'll be asked then. Per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, there are now 16 teams with at least 85 percent of their players vaccinated. Plus, more than 78 percent of players in the league have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine, per Judy Battista of NFL Media. I can tell you I have been 100 percent vaccinated since April.
Have a great weekend everyone!
