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Most Unexpected Performances From Titans' Win in Preseason Week 1
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- Most Unexpected Performances From Titans' Win in Preseason Week 1
The Tennessee Titans are fresh off their first victory of the preseason , and their first game under the leadership of Robert Saleh . When it comes to the performances of the contest, none of the players had a more surprising performance than these three players .
Derrick Canteen - Defensive Back
August 13, 2026; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jordan Watkins (17) is tackled by Tennessee Titans safety Nazeeh Johnson (36) and cornerback Derrick Canteen (42) during the fourth quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Derrick Canteen is going to be one of the better players once he continues to build on his weaknesses. He showcases that he is able to tackle at a very high clip, but will continue to build when it comes to his coverage. This was an awesome performance from the talented defensive back as he finished the game as one of the tackle leaders. When it comes to the upcoming week, I wouldn't be shocked that another big performance locks in a spot with the roster.
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James Williams Sr. - Linebacker
August 13, 2026; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jordan Watkins (17) is tackled by Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn ImagesIMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Another surprising performer from the contest was James Williams Sr., who finished the game as one of the better tacklers and plugged the gaps better than any of the linebackers in the run-stuffing defense. I believe that a big performance like that one more time could catapult himself into the starting conversation, as he is currently expected to be a primary rotational linebacker, along with being a key special teams contributor.
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Mitchell Trubisky - Quarterback
Tennessee Titans quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) throws on the second day of training camp practice at Vanderbilt Health Football Center Friday, July 30, 2026.USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Mitchell Trubisky ran the offense very well in his limited reps on the field. He showcased that he understands things and that he is going to be one of the players with the best chance of having a complete understanding of this new offense before the first regular season game against the New York Jets . Trubisky is going to be monitored closely and is going to have the chance to be a great player when it comes to being a leader, despite being on the bench behind Cam Ward .
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
