The Tennessee Titans took to the field on Tuesday to begin phase three of OTAs. NFL teams are allowed no contact practices as they begin installing new schemes, integrate new players in, and go through conditioning for the upcoming season.
While things things won’t start heating up until August rolls around and the preseason starts, there’s still plenty to talk about.
Here are some key notes from Tuesday’s practice.
Delanie Walker looks like he’ll be returning at full capacity in time for the 2019 season.
After missing all of the 2018 season from an ankle injury in week one, Walker returned to the field. The veteran looked crisp in his route running and full of energy. He left many impressed with the way he was able to move after the type of injury he suffered in September last year.
Walker did not participate in the seven-on-seven portion of practice, though.
Marcus Mariota is not in danger of losing the starting job.
Mike Vrabel reiterated after practice he loves the type of player and person Marcus Mariota is, and he is not in jeopardy of loosing his job to new-comer Ryan Tannehill.
The head coach said Mariota’s “job is not in jeopardy. I don’t think that’s something we’re even here to talk about.”
The two signal callers worked on roll out drills and developing chemistry with their wide receivers.
Corey Davis and A.J. Brown are going the extra mile.
Corey Davis and A.J. Brown stayed an extra thirty minutes after practice to get some extra work in, and it’s clear to see the pair of receivers hit it off early. Davis said earlier this offseason he was ready to step into a leadership role, and this is a step in the right direction to accomplish just that.
Another intriguing point to the developing relationship is Davis and Brown have an extremely similar playing style — big, physical, and versatile. Davis helping Brown also benefits the team in the sense. Like Davis, Brown isn’t scared to stick his nose in and block, which will improve the run game, sustain drives, rest the defense, and keep opposing offenses off the field.
Notable Mentions
• Kevin Byard and Kenny Vaccaro led defensive backs in drills.
• Cameron Wake looks to “pay it forward” in helping young players hone their crafts.
• Jonnu Smith was unable to practice (unspecified), but did get work on the jugs machine.
