The Tennessee Titans kicked off rookie minicamp on Friday at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park. Not only was this the first opportunity for Titans media to catch a glimpse of the rookie class, but it also provided a look at the different coaching styles in Brian Callahan's new staff.
Players were not in pads, so there is only so much one can learn from the first day of rookie minicamp. With that being said, here are the five biggest takeaways from Day 1:
1. Bill Callahan has invented custom sleds
The highly regarded offensive line coach wasted no time in showing off his newest invention. Callahan introduced first-round draft pick JC Latham to his tandem blocking sleds aptly named Bertha and Olga.
These 380-pound sleds will only move if the player is using the proper technique. Hand placement, leverage and power must come together cohesively in order to drive Bertha and Olga backwards.
2. JC Latham is coachable
Latham needs to be a sponge every time he hits the field leading up to the regular season. Bill Callahan is his biggest asset and Latham must soak up all of his knowledge in order to transform into an effective starting left tackle after playing on the right side at Alabama.
Latham was visibly upset with his first rep against Bertha but, after insight from Callahan, was able to effectively move the sled showing off his jaw-dropping strength.
3. T'Vondre Sweat and the Titans have a plan to manage his weight
It appears Sweat has a team of nutritionists and coaches that are working together to establish a diet plan that will help him slim down this summer. In with the good (food), out with the bad (food).
The coaching staff believes 2023 Outland Trophy winner will be a three-down player when September rolls around, but they first must help Sweat shed a few pounds to maximize his potential.
4. Two former first rounders were in attendance
Outside linebacker Shane Ray and cornerback William Jackson III are two veterans the coaching staff wanted to take a look at during rookie minicamp. Ray, who hasn't taken a snap in the NFL since 2018, looked like a veteran should look on Friday zooming through individual drills. Ray signed with the Buffalo Bills last offseason but was released during training camp after sustaining an injury.
5. UDFA standout
One undrafted free agent stood out more than the rest. Defensive lineman Isaiah Iton impressed while working alongside Sweat throughout the day. Iton spent two years at Ole Miss before finishing up at Rutgers last season where he tallied 29 tackles, 1.5 TFLs and 0.5 sacks.
The 6-foot-4 295 pounder already has an NFL physique. If he can fine tune his game over the next few months Iton will be a player to keep an eye on in training camp.
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