Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK
Tennessee Titans Roster Rundown: Inside Linebacker
NASHVILLE - As we move closer to the end of our Tennessee Titans Roster Rundown on Thursday, we look at the linebackers inside and outside, with the first being the inside linebacker.
As with many other position groups, the inside linebackers are mostly set, with Azeez Al-Shaair and Monty Rice set there, but could there be some challengers?
THE PLAYERS
Azeez Al-Shaair, Monty Rice, Chance Campbell, Luke Gifford, Jack Gibbens, Ben Niemann, Otis Reese IV
THE STARTERS
Azeez Al-SHaair: The former 49er backup is set as one of the starters here, and he did nothing during the offseason program to dispel that thought. He also took over as a defensive leader in the process.
Monty Rice: Entering his third season, the former third-round draft pick from Georgia should finally get his chance at a starting role. However, if one of the two starters could be challenged, it looks to be Rice, who some consider a downgrade from last season's starter.
THE BACKUPS
Here's where things get more interesting, as there will likely be strong competition for these top backup roles.
Luke Gifford: While Gifford was brought here mostly for his special team's play, he should have an inside track to one of the two backup roles.
Jack Gibbens: A fan favorite, Gibbens, another undrafted free agent, got his chance to play and start in the final weeks of 2022, and made the absolute most of it. Hopefully, that will carry over into the start of training camp and the season.
Chance Campbell: A former sixth-round pick of the Titans, the former Ole Miss standout is a tough, physical, who was a tackling machine for the Rebels. Last September, he suffered a knee injury that forced him onto the Injured Reserve list and to miss the entire season.
PRACTICE SQUAD
Otis Reese IV: Reese is the only player in this group with eligibility for the practice squad, and he should find himself here unless the Titans find someone once cutdowns begin.
CONCLUSION
As stated before, Rice could be challenged here during training camp by any of the others on this list, and he must elevate his play to hold onto his presumed position. Competition is a good thing; hopefully, this group can use that to boost their collective performance early on.
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