Major Takeaways from Tennessee Titans First Depth Chart of 2023 Preseason

 Jack Gibbens Starting at Linebacker Over Monty Rice

Jack Gibbens is going into his second year after signing with the Titans as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and he is competing against a former top-100 third rounder in Monty Rice, but from the looks of it Gibbens has edged ahead of the older, more highly-coveted Rice.

Head coach Mike Vrabel spoke recently about the battle between the two linebackers. Vrabel cited Gibbens' length as a helpful asset while pointing to Rice's speed and quickness as a positive. This battle will continue, but an early lead for Gibbens.

Chris Hubbard in at Right Tackle

The Tennessee Titans were dealt an unexpected blow with the suspension of Nicholas Petit-Frere for the first six games of the year and got into an even bigger hole at right tackle when they had to release Jamarco Jones due to practice immaturity.

Now, the Titans will look to the recently-signed Chris Hubbard to be their starter. Hubbard has 2,967 snaps at the position, but hasn't been a regular starter since 2019. Regardless, the Titans now have nothing, but Hubbard and some young, inexperienced players to use there, so the veteran wins out immediately.

Elijah Molden a Full-Time Safety?

We heard earlier in the offseason from the parties involved that Elijah Molden would be doing some cross-training at safety heading into his third season, but it appears that may have been a full-blown position change. 

Molden will still be able to play some slot corner certainly, but the cross-training may have turned into a more permanent role. With Molden's instincts and physicality, along with his struggles in man coverage, he's a perfect fit as the third safety on this defense.

Will Levis at QB3

Despite Levis mixing in some with the second team recently, he still sits behind second-year passer Malik Willis for the time being. What matters most is the preseason games though. This will be something to monitor week to week.

Alize Mack over Kevin Rader as TE4

Kevin Rader played 14 games with the Titans last year and has the versatility to play fullback for the team. Rader seemed to be in a good position to make the roster. However, Alize Mack has made some excellent catches recently in camp and has good athleticism. Mack could be taking the spot that seemed destined for Rader. Special teams will likely be the deciding factor here.

Julius Chestnut at Kickoff Returner

Do I think Julius Chestnut is actually the top kickoff returner? No, I do not. The Titans aren't going to put their top guy out there to take hits during the preseason. Sure, Chestnut could force the Titans to play him there with a great performance, but odds are this truly is a "preseason" decision and Hassan Haskins or Tyjae Spears would be the guy in a regular season game.

Titans Training Camp Stories

• OL Steps Up: The Tennessee Titans' offensive line has caused it's fair share of concern through the early stages of training camp, but on Friday we saw the offensive line finally have some good moments. CLICK HERE
• Titans Add OL Depth: The Tennessee Titans' efforts to rebuild their offensive line are ongoing, with the biggest concern at right tackle. The latest move to help there is signing veteran offensive lineman Justin Murray. CLICK HERE
• Fulton's Strong Start: The Tennessee Titans' cornerback is going into his fourth season and despite injury issues in the past, Fulton looks to be in the best shape of his career and is making plays at training camp. CLICK HERE