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Three Names Popping Up Early at Titans' Training Camp
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- Three Names Popping Up Early at Titans' Training Camp
The Tennessee Titans are entering their first season under head coach Robert Saleh . Saleh is planning to work the team to their full potential and has hopes of daily improvement.
Through the early stages of training camp, these three players have emerged as the Titans' biggest standouts, consistently making plays and generating positive buzz.
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Elic Ayomanor , Wide Receiver
Elic Ayomanor catching a pass in practiceSteve Roberts-Imagn Images
Arguably the biggest standout from the opening stages of training camp has been Elic Ayomanor . After breaking out as a rookie last season, Ayomanor enters 2026 in a different role, serving as a key rotational receiver rather than an expected starter.
Ayomanor has quickly become one of Cam Ward's favorite targets in camp. He is the only wide receiver to catch a touchdown in each of the first two practices, showcasing his ability to create separation, make plays after the catch, and consistently get open.
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Ayomanor's strong start could make him difficult to keep off the field. If he continues to build momentum throughout camp, he could push for a larger offensive role and potentially earn more starting opportunities as the season progresses.
Tyjae Spears , Running Back
Tennessee Titans RB Tyjae SpearsJeremy Reper-Imagn Images
The Titans have enjoyed success at the running back position in recent seasons, but injuries have prevented Tyjae Spears from reaching the level he's capable of.
Fortunately for the Titans, Spears has impressed throughout the early stages of training camp. He has been featured in several situations with many of his standout plays coming in the screen game. That versatility could prove especially valuable if the Titans' offensive line continues to face heavy pressure during the regular season.
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If Spears can stay healthy, the Titans could have one of the league's better third-down running backs, while also keeping Tony Pollard fresh throughout the season.
James Williams, Linebacker
Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) celebrates his interception during the second quarter of an NFL pre-season game against the Minnesota Vikings at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, Aug. 22, 2025.USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
The Titans have leaned heavily on their linebacker corps in recent seasons. Last year, Cedric Gray and Cody Barton emerged as two of the defense's most productive players, making it difficult for others to carve out larger roles. As a result, James Williams has primarily served as a rotational linebacker, but that could change in 2026.
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Williams has already shown encouraging signs during training camp, displaying improved instincts, flying to the football, and even recording an interception off Mitchell Trubisky in practice.
If Williams continues to build on that momentum, he could lock down the No. 3 linebacker role and earn meaningful defensive snaps throughout the season.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jul 31, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
