The 2026 preseason slate is set to begin on Thursday for the Titans, as they travel to San Francisco to take on the 49ers. This is a game that the Titans have been progressing toward for two weeks through the training camp they have been holding.
While many players will play during this contest, there are three who I believe will have a massive showing during the game.
Hendon Hooker - Quarterback
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The player who will have the best chance to shine is Hendon Hooker. Hooker has yet to receive team reps with the Titans, but it seems that this is going to come during the preseason game. Hooker is currently expected to be the No. 4 quarterback on the roster and is one of the players with the best chance of rising on the depth chart with a good showing, especially considering it seems that Will Levis isn't the quarterback many had hoped. If Hooker continues to develop through the minimal reps he receives, it would come as no shock if the Titans kept him around while attempting to trade Levis away.
Xavier Restrepo - Wide Receiver
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Xavier Restrepo is a fan favorite whom Titans fans have cheered on since he was added through the UDFA pool over a season ago. Restrepo isn't the biggest of receivers, but he is great when it comes to his route running. Restrepo's continued success in practice leaves many to believe that a big preseason game could be incoming, especially if his connection is strong with the backup quarterbacks. Restrepo is the wide receiver who I believe will have the biggest impact.
Jalen McMurray - Cornerback
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The Titans will have plenty of different defensive backs receive reps through the first preseason contest. This includes Jalen McMurray, who is one of "my guys" on this team due to the fact that he can play safety if needed, while also being flexible enough to play any of the cornerback positions. McMurray is going to be on the field competing for a spot with the team.
