The Tennessee Titans took the field for day one of mini-camp on Tuesday morning with the energy high and heat blazing.
Here are the observations from practice one.
Davis, Taylor continue to make plays
In a blazing hot day, the Titans two rookie receivers continued to be on fire during practice. Fifth-overall pick Corey Davis and third-rounder Taywan Taylor made plays all over the field, as they continue their great performances through the offseason.
“He caught a lot of balls today. This is the most reps he’s had since he has been here. He was very productive today in a variety of routes,” said Coach Mike Mularkey on Davis. “It was a good day for Corey Davis.”
Davis is off the injury report for the first time as a Titan. Mularkey said they are “leaving it up to him” on how feels and recovers. He looked smooth and clean in his route running. In his first play of team drills, the college all-time receiving yards leader burst up the field and leaped over a defender along the sideline to make a play.
His rookie counterpart, Taylor, showed off his speed on a “Go” route down the field. The Western Kentucky product beat his defender and made a full-extension grab in the end zone for a touchdown during one on one’s garnering some attention from his teammates watching the drill.
Defense has “no mistakes”, Cyprien injured
In the past few practices, it has seemed that the offense has gotten the best of the Titans defense. The script flipped on Tuesday, as the defense was active and involved. The 7-on-7 periods were dominated by pass deflections and tight passing lanes, along with a few interceptions.
“We only had three penalties but they were all on the offense. We had too many times the ball was being stripped by the defense. I’ll go with the reverse,” said Mularkey. “The defense was on top of things, had great communication, great execution, great with the turnovers. Very disciplined, no mistakes.”
Free agent addition, Safety Jonathan Cyprien, was injured; however, after he twisted his ankle during individual drills.
“It was a slight twist,” said Mularkey on the injury. “I don’t think it’s anything to be concerned about . . . I don’t think its serious.”
Former Titan, Tim Shaw, helping with special teams
Former Titans linebacker Tim Shaw has been an inspiration for many since his diagnosis with ALS, but especially his former team. He is frequently a participant and onlooker at practice, and was helping out with a group he is familiar with.
“We want Tim out here. He has a big impact on this team. I want him working with our special teams. You are talking about a core guy,” said Mularkey on Shaw. “You are talking about a guy who has made more tackles than anyone on this team in one year. We aren’t even close to his production. Follow his lead. I am glad he is here.”
Shaw, an honorary team member, was unfortunately taken off the field on a cart after being knocked over during a drill. Thankfully, he was back on the field for the end of practice and seemed to be in good spirits.
