In camp (9): Jeffery Simmons, John Franklin-Myers, Solomon Thomas, Earnest Brown IV, Jordan Elliott, Timmy Horne, Jalyn Holmes, Cam Horsley, Jackie Marshall.
Player to watch: Jeffery Simmons. A four-time Pro Bowl selection, a five-time captain, and a three-time Community Man of the Year winner for the Titans, Simmons received a multi-year contract extension last month. Simmons is coming off a season when he recorded a career-high 11 sacks, 60 quarterback pressures, 67 tackles, 17 tackles for a loss and three forced fumbles. In seven NFL seasons, Simmons has recorded 383 tackles, 42.5 sacks, 275 quarterback pressures, and 65 tackles for a loss. Some impressive stats, huh? Can Simmons keep it going? Well, he's shown no signs of slowing down. And, you can bet he'll be even more motivated after being disrespected on NFL Network's Top 100 players list. No. 83? Really?
What I've seen so far: Simmons didn't take part in OTAs and he didn't do much in June's minicamp after revealing he had his right elbow cleaned out earlier this offseason. It's an injury that limited him in the past, keeping him from straightening out the arm while wearing a brace. Simmons wants to now prove to his coaches he can play more snaps in a row than maybe what they have in mind. Franklin-Myers also worked out on his own most the offseason. Like the defensive ends, these linemen got a taste of what life will be like under new defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton, who will push them to the max. Solomon Thomas is all about that style of coaches, and proved it during his offseason snaps. Among other things, Thomas even had an INT in the offseason work. I thought draft pick Jackie Marshall flashed while playing alongside veterans in the group.
What I think the Titans need to see in camp: The Titans plan to use a rotation on the defensive line, inside and outside. The more guys who can be ready to contribute, the better. Simmons plans to be in the best shape of his career heading into the season, and the team would love to see it. The underrated Franklin-Myers wants to prove the Titans right after signing him, and it would be great to see him primed and ready for Week 1. Thomas is a tone-setter who can further inspire those around him as he heads into Year 10. This is a position group where spots are up for grabs between veterans and younger players. The more players who can prove themselves capable, the better.
Next up: Linebackers.
TITANS TRAINING CAMP
Join the Tennessee Titans, August 7, as we celebrate the final stadium practice at the current Nissan Stadium with the Blue & White Stadium Scrimmage, presented by Pinnacle!
