NASHVILLE – Titans coach Robert Saleh conducted a zoom conference call with reporters on Monday, as the team returned from the bye weekend.
The Titans will return to action this Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Nissan Stadium.
Here's a look at some of the hot topics from today's call:
-The NFL's trade deadline is Tuesday at 3 p.m. Nashville time. Saleh said GM Mike Borgonzi has done a nice job communicating with everyone in the building, along with agents, leading up to the deadline. "If something pops up that is unforeseen, then so be it," Saleh said. "But as of now, we're operating as if the team that is here today will be the team that shows up on Sunday."
-Saleh said quarterback Cam Ward has been getting better, and more comfortable. "I would love to sit here and tell you it is going to keep on climbing with no hiccups, and he is going to have nine of the best games he's ever had in his life," Saleh said. "But we are going to continue working with him, continue finding ways to get better and we are going to ride the peaks and valleys and hopefully by the end of the year we're hitting a stride where Cam is consistently playing at a high level."
-Saleh said rookie receiver Carnell Tate has made improvement finding "junk yards," or run after the catch, by transitioning to a runner after securing the football. Saleh said that's an area where Tate has improved since college, while noting he still needs to clean up some things as it relates to ball security.
-Saleh said protecting the football is a big area for the offense in the second half of the season. Saleh said the third down defense "isn't anywhere where it needs to be," while also noting two-minute defense also needs to improve. Saleh also said there have been too many explosive plays allowed in the passing game.
-Saleh said the team will continue to evaluate Alontae Taylor and Marcus Harris in the nickel spot, and playing time will be earned in practices moving forward.
-Saleh was asked about a reported "incident" involving receiver Calvin Ridley at the Nashville airport, and what he could share. "With regards to Calvin, we are aware of everything that's happening," Saleh said. "From my understanding it was a very minor miscommunication at the airport, unfortunately law enforcement has it and that is about as far as I can go with commenting."
-Saleh said the 6-2 Jaguars may be the best team the Titans have faced this season. "Last week I made the comment that Cincinnati was the best team we've played this year," Saleh said, "well, Jacksonville is one-upping it. … All three phases are playing at a high level. They are pretty damn good."
-Saleh did not provide any injury updates, only saying "I'm going to hold them until Wednesday."
