The Tennessee Titans were victorious in their game against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday. This was the first game of their preseason slate. Following the contest and the performances of the players, I have filled out my entire projection for the starting lineup. Here is where things stand for me currently.
Offensive Starting Lineup Projection
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Quarterback: Cam Ward. Not much to say here. This won't change as long as Ward is healthy. The Titans have invested too much to change things now.
Running Back: Tony Pollard. Another position that seems locked down for this year. Pollard looked fast and smooth in his performance against the 49ers.
Wide Receivers: Carnell Tate, Calvin Ridley, Wan'Dale Robinson. Calvin Ridley won me over in the game against the 49ers. He did everything the right way and looked like a veteran the Titans need on the field. As for Robinson and Tate, nothing can change my mind on that.
Tight End: Gunnar Helm. Talk about a monster catch on the night; Helm was that guy. As Tyler Rowland said, "Nightmare on Helm Street" could be a reality for years to come.
Offensive Line: Dan Moore Jr., Peter Skoronski, Austin Schlottmann, Fernando Carmona Jr., JC Latham. Carmona is a beast, and he proved that in his time on the field. At this time, I believe he has pulled away as the favorite at the right guard position. Everyone else seems locked in, unless Pat Coogan has a massive performance at center soon.
Defensive Starting Lineup Projection
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Defensive Line: Jeffery Simmons, John Franklin-Myers. While we didn't have the chance to see John Franklin-Myers in action, the Titans brought him in for a reason. He is set to be a starter, and the duo Jeffery Simmons has needed.
EDGEs: Jermaine Johnson II, Oluwafemi Oladejo. It seems that Oluwafemi Oladejo could be the shock of the preseason. He was my favorite player to watch in the first preseason contest and was great when it comes to rushing the passer.
Linebackers: Cedric Gray, Anthony Hill Jr. I have bounced between Anthony Hill Jr. and Cody Barton plenty of times, but I am starting to feel a big break is coming for Hill Jr. He is the linebacker I think deserves it more.
Cornerbacks: Alontae Taylor, Cordale Flott, Marcus Harris. Despite a bad performance by Flott and the remainder of the cornerback room, I believe this group is nearly set in stone moving forward.
Safeties: Amani Hooker, Kevin Winston Jr. I was pleased with the game Amani Hooker had in particular. I believe he is going to be the other starter alongside Kevin Winston Jr.
