Preseason Preview: 3 Predictions for Titans Opening Matchup vs. 49ers

Today is the last day of the offseason before Tennessee Titans football starts back up. After an arduous few months filled with tracking free agents. projecting draft picks, waiting on new jerseys, we've finally made it to kickoff. Tennessee takes on the San Francisco 49ers in their preseason opener tomorrow night at 9:00 PM.

So what better time to put a few final bids in than now? Based on this offseason, as well as how yesterday's joint practice between the two teams went, we've put together three predictions for the Titans first competitive appearance since January.

Let's start with the offense.

Cam Ward Has a Productive Night

In light of Turron Davenport's report that Robert Saleh intends to play Tennessee's starters for more than one series, Ward will have the chance to get his feet wet as a sophomore in the NFL. The momentum for a productive game is on his side.

In yesterday's practice, despite a searing pick six, Ward threw two touchdowns and managed to finish 16-23 passing on the day. Against the same defense tomorrow, Tennessee's QB should have a chance to settle in and go through his reads.

He's just looked great all offseason, and in practicing against one of the best defenses in the league, Ward continued to look the part... for the most part. There's no reason to expect that he won't continue to shine here.

Tennessee's Secondary Keeps Struggling

Another major note from yesterday's practice was the secondary's continued shortcomings. The Titans' ball hawks had already struggled to contain the likes of Carnell Tate and Elic Ayomanor in camp, and against the 49ers, the unit allowed numerous explosive plays.

Demarcus Robinson beat Tennessee safety Armani Hooker for a touchdown on one play, and on the whole, Nick Wagoner reported a strong showing from San Francisco's passing offense.

Headed into live competition, the Titans' secondary is a group that has gradually been slipping as we approach the season. You'd hope for improvement on the field, but we've got no signs to suggest it.

Xavier Restrepo Catches a Touchdown

Even as the Titans' offense wavered yesterday, Xavier Restrepo emerged as a notable winner for Tennessee. He caught two touchdowns on the day, one of which came from Ward in the red zone.

Cam Ward to Xavier Restrepo in joint practice with the #49ers

Restrepo had 2 TDs today… pic.twitter.com/qvZjcTR2YR
— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) August 12, 2026

Let's say that he keeps his foot on the pedal and catches another one tomorrow night. Restrepo is one of Tennessee's most notable names fighting for a roster spot this offseason, and he may need a little flashiness to get him through the gate.

Assuming he gets the expected clock, we'll check the touchdown box for Restrepo in the Titans' preseason debut.

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