The Tennessee Titans are set to begin their rookie minicamp on Friday at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park. While the first practice session will be closed to the media, fans and reporters can look forward to Saturday’s practice, which will be open for coverage. Expect a wave of social media updates featuring the team’s newest additions in action.
There are several storylines to follow throughout the weekend, and one of the most anticipated is the first on-field appearance of quarterback Cam Ward in a Titans uniform. Ward, who has already made several impressions during the pre-draft process, will now get the chance to start integrating with the team in a more hands-on setting.
Ward stood out at his Pro Day in March—not just because of his physical talent but also due to his strong leadership qualities. Watching how his new NFL teammates respond to him on the practice field this weekend will be telling. He arrived in Nashville on Thursday along with other rookies, getting fitted for equipment and beginning the process of acclimation.
The rookie quarterback will now look to take early command of the team’s young core. Seeing how quickly Ward can grasp the offense and build chemistry with fellow rookies will be one of the primary storylines to monitor.
Beyond Ward, the Titans’ draft class includes eight other players. One name to watch closely is second-round linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo, who enters a position group in need of impact players. This weekend marks his first step in competing for playing time on a defense seeking playmakers.
However, a trio of offensive skill players may draw just as much attention: wide receivers Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor, along with tight end Gunnar Helm. These three bring size, athleticism, and the potential to contribute quickly at positions of need. Their performances could offer early insight into the team’s plans at those spots.
In addition to the drafted rookies, the Titans have brought in a group of 16 undrafted free agents, which includes players at nearly every position. Among the names to follow are offensive lineman Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson, defensive lineman Cam Horsley, running back Micah Bernard, and defensive backs Jalen Kimber and Jermari Harris.
Wide receiver Xavier Restrepo stands out from the group, in part because of his connection with Ward—they were teammates at Miami—and also because of his compelling backstory. At his Pro Day, Restrepo ran a slower-than-expected 40-yard dash, a result that visibly disappointed him and may have hurt his draft stock.
Despite not being selected in the draft, Restrepo now gets a chance to show the Titans what he can bring to the table. His journey to bounce back and compete for a roster spot, alongside his college quarterback, makes for one of the more emotional storylines of the weekend.
Finally, it won’t just be players making their public debuts—several coaches will be on display as well. One notable figure is special teams coordinator John “Bones” Fassel, whose high-energy coaching style should be on full display. The weekend promises to provide a glimpse into not only the future of the Titans’ roster, but also the evolving coaching dynamic of the team.
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