The Tennessee Titans hit the field again on Saturday for Day 2 of this year’s training camp.
Throughout the practice, quarterback Marcus Mariota and a host of other players showed signs of progression, and we also got to a look in on the defensive lineman Jurrell Casey’s mentorship role to a newly drafted Jeffery Simmons.
Tomorrow, the Titans will practice in pads for the first time of 2019’s training camp.
Here are five takeaways from today’s practice.
Marcus Mariota is growing in terms of reading defenses and anticipation.
Mariota has shown signs of improvement using his hard count to get the defense to tip their hand.
On one particular play on Saturday, he used a hard count to distinguish which side the blitz was coming from, had the running back shift sides, and hit wide receiver Taywan Taylor on a quick route.
On another play, Mariota threw receiver Corey Davis a ball before Davis even made a break on his route. Davis was able to make a diving catch while Adoree’ Jackson was in coverage.
These abilities will come into play as Mariota looks to prove himself in the upcoming season.
Cameron Wake and Sharif Finch are rotating in with the first team defense.
Much like the Miami Dolphins, the Titans seem to have a clear plan for Wake on a snap count. He and second-year linebacker Shariff Finch are currently rotating in with the first team defense on the right side.
Jurrell Casey and Jeffery Simmons already have a good thing going.
Casey’s undisclosed injury could turn out to be a blessing in disguise. While Casey’s injury shouldn’t be a cause of concern just yet, the Pro Bowl defensive lineman is putting in some one-on-one work with highly talented rookie-to-be Jeffery Simmons.
The two spent time together doing bag drills on the side field.
Jack Conklin left practice early.
On Friday, quarterback Marcus Mariota praised offensive tackle Jack Conklin for the work he’s put into conditioning and shaping up over the offseason.
Conklin looked bigger, stronger, and in overall better shape than he did when the Titans originally drafted him. If you had a chance to look at Conklin’s post-practice interview yesterday, the difference was apparent.
However, after missing so much time last season, Conklin leaving practice early like he did on Saturday has to be a concern.
The punt return specialist job is up for grabs.
Although we didn’t see Adoree’ Jackson returning any punts today, head Coach Mike Vrabel said the job is up for grabs in his post-practice presser.
He specifically noted cornerback Adoree’ Jackson and wide receivers Adam Humphries, Cameron Batson as being candidates, although other names are also in the running.
Vrabel went on to mention there really isn’t any coaching spots for a retuner other than catching the ball cleanly first. He’s looking for someone who can catch the ball and then make a play.
