The Tennessee Titans concluded their two-day mandatory minicamp on Wednesday with the second and final practice. Essentially a continuation of OTAs, but mandatory this time, it offered head coach Robert Saleh another opportunity to assess his football team before training camp begins in late July. We’ve compiled some of the more interesting news and notes from minicamp, thanks to the excellent reporting done by those in attendance.
Franchise quarterback Cam Ward was far more accurate during minicamp
than he was in OTAs, per everyone in attendance. Coach Saleh and Brian Daboll were very complimentary of their young quarterback when discussing his progress at the podium. Ward was most effective when scrimmages mirrored (move-the-ball periods) actual football. All reviews were positive after some lackluster showings at OTAs.
Sophomore wide receiver Chimere Dike had a team-high four receptions at the first practice, per Jim Wyatt. The Pro Bowl returner flashed consistent strides as a receiver at OTAs and minicamp. Wan’Dale Robinson and Carnell Tate appear established as the top two receivers on offense, but Dike is going to push Calvin Ridley for playing time.
The arrow is pointing up for fellow sophomore wideout Xavier Restrepo. A fan-favorite in Tennessee and close friend of Ward, supporters were disappointed when he didn’t make the 53-man roster last year. He eventually was called up to play, and showed a little chemistry with Ward. Restrepo made an incredibly acrobatic catch at Wednesday’s session, per Easton Freeze. Expect to see the one-handed grab floating around social media. He’ll push Bryce Oliver for that final roster spot at wide receiver.
Jeffery Simmons sounded incredibly motivated and prepared to play under Coach Saleh. The Pro Bowl defensive tackle is looking forward to thriving in this attack-style defense. Simmons confirmed he had clean-up surgery in the offseason, and that’s why he wasn’t a full participant at OTAs or minicamp. It’s nothing to be concerned about.
Femi Oladejo, JC Latham, and Cor’Dale Flott are among the notable players nursing injuries. Hopefully they’ll be ready for training camp.
