5 Titans who could perform better in preseason Week 2

The Tennessee Titans held two competitive joint practices with the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday and Thursday earlier this week. Head coach Brian Callahan has consistently said that these practices will mean fewer reps for the “starters” in the Week 2 preseason game versus the Seahawks on Saturday. That should lead to plenty of in-game opportunities for the twos and threes.

With that in mind, we’ve identified five Titans we’d like to see perform at a higher level than they did in last Saturday’s preseason victory over the San Francisco 49ers.

Jaylen Harrell, EDGE

Callahan singled out rookie pass rusher Jaylen Harrell as a player he was really excited to watch. Harrell totaled 20 defensive snaps, more than any edge defender on the team. The former Michigan Wolverines standout recorded just two solo tackles and zero quarterback pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. Outside linebackers coach Ben Bloom would like to see him make a bigger impact this weekend.

Mason Rudolph, QB

Mason Rudolph was by no means a liability. He completed 10-of-17 passing attempts for 126 yards, zero touchdowns, and zero interceptions. The Titans believe he’s one of the better backup quarterbacks in the NFL. That leaves room for improvement considering he failed to lead a single scoring drive. Will Levis led two touchdown drives and Malik Willis led the Titans to a field goal.

Callahan has already said that Willis will receive the start. He’s earned an opportunity with the second-team offense. That should lead to a productive showing for Rudolph as the No. 3 quarterback.

Julius Chestnut, RB

The battle for RB3 behind Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears is gaining steam. Hassan Haskins rushed for 27 yards versus San Francisco, and Julius Chestnut gained just nine yards via five carries, though he did make Tennessee’s most explosive offensive play on a 36-yard screen. Chestnut also lost a fumble after a high snap led to a difficult exchange with Rudolph. Haskins is likely in the driver’s seat, so Chestnut needs a big-time performance.

Jack Gibbens, LB

Jack Gibbens was outperformed by Chance Campbell and Otis Reese IV last Saturday. The “starters” aren’t expected to play much versus Seattle, though we’re not convinced Gibbens should receive the superstar treatment. He was particularly poor in zone coverage during San Francisco’s first scoring drive. He needs to be better if he’s to continue fending off competition from Campbell and Reese.

Shane Ray, EDGE

Shane Ray is attempting to write a heartwarming comeback story. Dennard Wilson and the coaching staff seem to believe he’s capable of helping them replace Arden Key during his suspension. PFF credited Ray with two pressures and a pass-rushing grade of 75.6, but Callahan admitted he wants to see more from the pass rush.