Story by
Three Titans Backups Whose Snaps Will Matter More Than the Depth Chart Suggests
- Story by
- Three Titans Backups Whose Snaps Will Matter More Than the Depth Chart Suggests
The Tennessee Titans underwent a major roster overhaul this offseason, making impactful additions on both sides of the ball through free agency and the NFL draft. As a result, the Titans' projected starting lineup looks dramatically different.
With an influx of talent comes tougher competition for playing time. Several players capable of starting will instead begin the year in reserve roles, giving the Titans one of their deepest rosters in recent history. While they may not be listed atop the depth chart, these three backups are poised to play significant roles and could prove to be among the team's most important contributors this season.
Advertisement
Joshua Williams , Cornerback
Aug 15, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Dareke Young (83) runs for yards after the catch against Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) during the second quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images© Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Joshua Williams is entering his first season in Tennessee after signing with the Titans in free agency. The veteran cornerback spent the first four seasons of his career with the Chiefs before making the move to Nashville.
Williams is expected to begin the season in a reserve role, but could carve out a spot in the Titans' secondary as the year progresses.
In 2025, Williams posted a 75.6 PFF defensive grade . While he didn't log enough snaps to qualify for the rankings, he made the most of his opportunities on the field.
Advertisement
The Titans enter the season with limited depth at outside cornerback and will need reliable contributors behind the starters. With Alontae Taylor and Cor'Dale Flott projected to handle the majority of the snaps on the outside, Williams is the leading candidate to provide quality depth and step into an expanded role if needed.
Elic Ayomanor , Wide Receiver
Dec 28, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Titans wide receiver Elic Ayomanor (5) celebrates his touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn ImagesIMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Elic Ayomanor returns for his second NFL season after emerging as one of the Titans' breakout performers in 2025 . He finished his rookie campaign with 515 receiving yards and four touchdown receptions, flashing the potential to become a reliable contributor in this offensive scheme.
Advertisement
Ayomanor is expected to be a backup after the Titans drafted Carnell Tate and welcomed back a healthy Calvin Ridley following his season-ending leg injury in 2025. While he may no longer be in the starting lineup, Ayomanor is still projected to play a significant role as part of the team's receiver rotation.
The Titans have considerably more depth at wide receiver than they did a year ago, giving them flexibility to rotate fresh bodies throughout games. That added competition may reduce Ayomanor's snap count, but it also puts him in a position to maximize his opportunities and build on an impressive rookie season.
Daniel Bellinger , Tight End
The Titans bolstered their tight end room by signing Daniel Bellinger during the early stages of free agency. Bellinger arrives in Tennessee after spending the first four years of his career with the Giants. In 2025, he finished with 286 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions.
Advertisement
Following Chigoziem Okonkwo 's departure in free agency, the Titans will lean on Gunnar Helm as their starting tight end. While Helm is expected to handle the bulk of the snaps, making the transition from backup to full-time starter comes with added responsibility. This is where Bellinger's experience becomes valuable.
The Titans have consistently used multiple tight end sets, and Bellinger should play a significant role in those packages, particularly as a blocker in the run game. Even if he isn't listed as a starter, his versatility and reliability make him an important piece of the Titans' offense and a player who could have a meaningful impact throughout the season.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jul 30, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
