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"Justin is a strong, physical receiver that has the ability to get downfield and has a lot of playing experience," said Titans General Manager Mike Reinfeldt. "There is obviously a comfort-level from both sides with his previous time here and he adds depth to the receiver group."
McCareins (6-2, 215) was originally drafted by the Titans in the fourth round (121st overall) of the 2001 NFL Draft. In three seasons in Tennessee (2001-2003), McCareins saw action in 36 regular season contests with 12 starts and snared 69 catches for 1,202 yards and nine touchdowns. The former Northern Illinois standout enjoyed the most successful campaign of his career in 2003 under the tutelage of current Titans offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger. That season, he grabbed 47 receptions for a career-best 813 yards and a career-high seven touchdowns.
"I am excited to have him back. Justin gives us someone who can catch it, make someone miss and get yards after catch," said Heimerdinger. "He also gives us some toughness in the run game, digging out defensive backs and has the ability to help Alan (Lowry) on special teams."
On March 5, 2004, McCareins was traded by the Titans to the New York Jets in exchange for the Jets' second round draft choice (42nd overall) in the 2004 NFL Draft. In his first season with his new club, McCareins grabbed a career-high 56 receptions for 770 yards and four scores. In 2007, the seven-year veteran appeared in all 16 games for the Jets and posted 19 catches for 232 yards.
McCareins was a four-year starter at Northern Illinois who set Huskies' school records in receptions (204), receiving yards (2,991) and touchdowns (29). A native of Naperville, Ill., he earned first-team all-state as a senior at Naperville High School after hauling in 34 passes for 644 yards and five touchdowns.
