Tennessee Titans Strengthen Roster Ahead of Training Camp
Before Thursday’s training camp practice, the Tennessee Titans bolstered their 90-man roster with two key additions. General manager Ran Carthon re-signed center Corey Levin, a familiar face, and brought in veteran pass rusher Shane Ray, as reported by A to Z Sports.
Corey Levin, originally drafted by the Titans in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, played two seasons with the team before departing in 2019. He rejoined the Titans in 2021 and spent the majority of the past three seasons with them. Levin’s contract expired in March, leaving him a free agent until this recent signing.
The Titans faced training camp without a clear backup center for free-agent signee Lloyd Cushenberry. Daniel Brunskill, last year’s starting right guard, practiced at center during OTAs and minicamp. Although Brunskill missed Wednesday’s practice due to illness, he returned on Thursday. Despite Brunskill’s return, the Titans still signed Levin, suggesting a potential competition for the backup center position. Brunskill’s spot on the 53-man roster is not guaranteed.
Shane Ray, a veteran pass rusher, also joined the Titans after being spotted at the training camp. The Titans had previously worked Ray out during rookie minicamp in May. He spent part of the 2023 offseason with the Buffalo Bills. Notably, head coach Brian Callahan, who was with the Denver Broncos during Ray’s rookie season in 2015, and wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert, also from the same staff, bring familiarity to Ray’s addition.
The Titans are in dire need of depth at the pass-rushing position, especially behind starters Harold Landry III and Arden Key. With Landry missing Wednesday’s practice due to illness, Ray’s addition might initially be seen as filling a temporary gap. However, Ray will compete with Thomas Rush, Caleb Murphy, Khalid Duke, and Jaylen Harrell for a spot on the back end of the roster.
To make room for Levin and Ray, the Titans released undrafted running back Dillon Johnson.
In conclusion, the Titans’ strategic roster additions before training camp underline their commitment to reinforcing key positions. Corey Levin’s return introduces competition for the backup center role, while Shane Ray’s signing addresses the need for depth in the pass-rushing unit. These moves highlight the team’s proactive approach in preparing for the upcoming season.
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