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As NFL teams head into training camp, many players are already penciled in at the top of the depth chart. But what about the depth behind the starters?
The Tennessee Titans worked hard to improve their roster and will have solid competition in camp for various roles and playing time. Bill Barnwell of ESPN looked at all 32 rosters and found projected back-ups who could thrive if given a chance.
Tennessee TitansKR/PR Chimere Dike, C/G Pat Coogan
Dike is nominally a wide receiver and could see gadget snaps for us there, but he's primarily here for his work as a returner, which earned the Florida product first-team All-Pro honors and helped the Titans improve from 32nd to seventh in special teams DVOA. Dike will be playing behind Calvin Ridley, Carnell Tate and Wan'Dale Robinson at wide receiver in Tennessee, so he figures as our returner.
Coogan fits two of our team's motifs: He can play multiple positions along the offensive line, and he's a draftee from the title-winning Indiana team.
Dike did flash as a receiver and proved he was more than a gadget receiver as a rookie, and should find his way into the rotation. However, Barnwell is right: Dike is dynamic as a return specialist and a weapon on special teams. It will be interesting to see how his role develops throughout training camp to see where he eventually fits in.
Coogan is an intriguing pick, and he is flying a bit under the radar in the battle for the starting center role on offense. An experienced pivot, his intangibles and leadership qualities should give him a shot to surprise heading into training camp.
This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Two Titans named to NFL 'All-Backup Team'
