Titans: 5 takeaways from initial 53-man roster

The Titans made a flurry of roster moves on Monday and Tuesday to get down to the 53-man limit. Most of these moves were expected, but there were definitely a few surprises tossed in.

The roster will likely still change near the bottom. As waiver claims come in, it’s likely that at least one or two guys will be replaced. With that being said, let’s go over our initial takeaways.

5. 7 WR and 3 TE?

This will likely change at some point but it was still nice to see the team go with a pass-heavy roster. I thought either Kearis Jackson or Colton Dowell would make the team, but both were kept around for now.

Many thought Thomas Odukoya would be the fourth TE after an impressive summer, but clearly, the team saw more value with an extra receiver. The Titans rarely utilize six receivers, much less seven. If this means more passing, I’m all for it.

4. Eric Garror misses the cut

I really thought Garror was a lock. He had a phenomenal camp and preseason and was always around the ball. Nevertheless, the team decided to roll with fellow UDFA Anthony Kendall.

Kendall didn’t play poorly or anything, he just didn’t stand out as often as Garror. Oh well. Garror likely won’t get claimed, so I bet he will end up on the practice squad. This was pretty much the only move that confused me slightly.

3. 3 QBs were inevitable

Malik Willis outperformed Will Levis all summer. However, nobody in their right mind thought Levis was getting cut. As a second-round pick, the Titans will give him every opportunity.

Once Levis is fully healthy, he could earn the backup role. Willis played too well to cut, so he keeps it for now. This is a good problem to have.

2. The Chestnut Era

Julius Chestnut is impossible to not root for. He runs hard, contributes on special teams, and blocks. He’s objectively a much better player than Hassan Haskins, and offers no legal drama!

The trio of Henry-Spears-Chestnut might be the best trio of backs the team has ever had. Yes, that’s how highly I think of this group.

1. UDFAs galore

In total, four 2023 undrafted free agents made this roster. Typically only one or two would make a roster, but that goes to show the scouting ability of this front office. Either that or the roster isn’t very good. I choose to believe the former.

Kearis Jackson, Matthew Jackson, Caleb Murphy, and Otis Reese IV not only made the team, but all look set to play key roles.