With Titan rookie camp underway there are signs of optimism at Baptist Sports Park, the Titan training complex in Nashville. The Titans are coming off a shaky draft class last year where the only major contribution came from number 1 pick Michael Griffin. 

Coach Fisher believes this years class will have players contributing from day one including of course number 1 Chris Johnson.   Johnson will be a kick returner on special teams as well as a versatile back who will compliment LenDale White in the backfield.  He will line up in the slot as a receiver at times and should be a major threat in the running and passing game, which should help open up some space for White to be more effective. 

The team is very high on 2^nd round pick Jason Jones and expect him to be on the field making a impact from day one.  Tight end Craig Stevens will be used more as a blocker during rushing downs.  Lavelle Hawkins will probably see some limited duty early at wideout, but will probably be more of an immediate impact on special teams. 

The Titans expect all of the draft picks to contribute to their depth on special teams.  Again, it is very early to judge this draft but there are signs that the coaches are very pleased with what they have.  The proof will come in July and the exhibition season to see where and how these players fit in to the system and how much better they make the team.

Camp Happenings

 Cary Williams, the 7^th round pick out of Washburn College in Kansas.  The division II schools nickname is the “Ichobods”.  What is an Ichobod you ask?  Cary explained that it looks like an oversized Monopoly man, thereby I’m assuming striking fear into the thimble and top hat.  Research indicates that they are actually named after Ichobod Washburn who donated a large amount of money to the school in the 1860’s.  I guess back then right after the Civil War they weren’t worrying much about striking fear into future sports opponents with their name. Rafael Little, the undrafted running back out of Kentucky who is on injured reserve for the entire year due to a knee injury suffered during his senior year at Kentucky caused quite a stir when he strolled out in practice wearing a number 32 jersey.  After a brief talk with Coach Fisher he removed Adam Jones old number and was on his way. Coach Fisher was asked if the Titans planned on retiring the number and he told the assembled media that he was sending it to Dallas. 

Totally Unrelated Movie Review

One of the very few perks of being Self Employed is being able to set my own hours.  Therefore I had the opportunity to catch a matinee showing yesterday of the movie 21.  I was the only person in the theater, which I didn’t take as a good sign.  However, the movie turned out to be solid and I recommend it for your viewing pleasure.  It’s not going to be up for an Academy Award but it was enjoyable nonetheless especially at the reduced matinee price.  Did I mention I was cheap?   Have a great rest of the week!!

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