Titans training camp preview: Running backs

Titans training camp preview: Running backs
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The Tennessee Titans will officially begin training camp on July 28th when the veterans report to Vanderbilt Health Football Camp in Nashville. We’ll be previewing several position groups until then. The Titans have six running backs on the offseason roster. Mike Borgonzi and Robert Saleh decided against making major changes.

In camp (6): Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, Nicholas Singleton, Julius Chestnut, Kalel Mullings, Michael Carter.

Biggest storyline: The Titans are essentially running it back with Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. There have been some back-end changes but make no mistake, the rushing attack will go as far as Pollard and Spears are capable of carrying them. An improved passing offense, spearheaded by Cam Ward and Brian Daboll, could have a positive impact on the ground-and-pound approach.

Most to prove: Spears is entering a contract year. He’s missed a handful of contests in consecutive seasons as lingering issues muted his impact across 2024 and 2025. Borgonzi didn’t draft Spears, and he appears unlikely to earn an extension in Tennessee.

Breakout star: Will Spears stay healthy enough to possibly breakout or even have a career-best season? The fanbase is excited about sixth-round rookie Nicholas Singleton. Singleton displayed explosiveness and athleticism at Penn State. He may be the future for the Titans with both Pollard and Spears in contract years, but he’s unlikely to make a huge impact in 2026.

Training camp competition: Pollard, Spears, and Singleton are guaranteed to make the 53-man roster. Will the Titans keep four running backs? If so, Julius Chestnut, Kalel Mullings, and Michael Carter are all competing for that potential role. Chestnut is a veteran back and proven special teamer. Mullings disappointed as a rookie, but also has special teams upside as a former linebacker. Carter previously played for Saleh and has the closest skill set to Spears, if the Titans need insurance there given his history of injuries.