Tennessee Titans: 5 key players to watch in the preseason finale

As the Tennessee Titans prepare to face off against the Minnesota Vikings in their final preseason game, the stakes are high for several players on both teams. With roster cuts looming and starting positions up for grabs, each player knows that this game could make or break their chances of making the final roster.

One of the most intriguing battles to watch in this game is at the quarterback position. The Titans have veteran Ryan Tannehill firmly entrenched as their starter, but behind him, there is a fierce competition brewing between Logan Woodside and rookie draft pick, Matt Barkley, for the backup role. Woodside has been with the team for the past two seasons and has shown flashes of potential in the preseason, while Barkley is a former fourth-round pick with NFL experience under his belt. Both players will be looking to make a strong impression in this game to solidify their spot on the team.

On the defensive side of the ball, there are several players fighting for a spot on the roster. The Titans have a deep and talented group of linebackers, but there are a few players on the bubble who will need to shine in this game to earn their place on the team. One player to watch is rookie linebacker Monty Rice, who was drafted in the third round this year. Rice has been impressive in training camp and has shown a knack for making plays on the field. However, with so much talent at the linebacker position, he will need to have a standout performance in this game to secure his spot on the roster.

In the secondary, the Titans have a mix of veterans and young players vying for playing time. One player to keep an eye on is rookie cornerback Caleb Farley, who was drafted in the first round this year. Farley has been dealing with injuries throughout training camp, but when healthy, he has shown flashes of the potential that made him a first-round pick. With the Titans looking to improve their pass defense this season, Farley will need to show that he can stay healthy and make an impact on the field in this game to earn playing time.

The wide receiver position is another area of interest for the Titans in this game. With star receiver Julio Jones dealing with a minor injury, there will be extra opportunities for other receivers to step up and make a case for a spot on the roster. One player who will be looking to take advantage of this is rookie receiver Racey McMath, who was drafted in the sixth round this year. McMath has impressed coaches with his speed and athleticism in training camp, and he will be looking to showcase his skills in this game to earn a spot on the team.

As for the Vikings, they also have several position battles and roster spots up for grabs in this game. One of the most hotly contested battles is at the running back position, where veteran Dalvin Cook is firmly entrenched as the starter. Behind him, there is a competition between Alexander Mattison and rookie Kene Nwangwu for the backup role. Mattison has been solid in his role as Cook’s backup in the past, but Nwangwu has shown flashes of potential in the preseason and will be looking to make a strong impression in this game to earn more playing time.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Vikings have a talented group of defensive linemen who will be looking to make an impact in this game. One player to watch is rookie defensive end Patrick Jones II, who was drafted in the third round this year. Jones has impressed coaches with his pass-rushing ability in training camp, and he will be looking to translate that success to the field in this game to earn a spot in the rotation.

In the secondary, the Vikings have a mix of veterans and young players vying for playing time. One player to keep an eye on is rookie cornerback Cameron Dantzler, who showed promise as a rookie last season. Dantzler will be looking to build on that success and solidify his spot in the starting lineup with a strong performance in this game.

Overall, this preseason finale between the Titans and Vikings is shaping up to be a crucial game for several players on both teams. With roster cuts looming and starting positions up for grabs, each player knows that this game could be their last chance to make an impression on the coaching staff and secure their spot on the final roster. Fans can expect to see a competitive and intense game as these players battle it out on the field for their NFL dreams.

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Source: Sporting News