The Tennessee Titans are confronting a critical need for stability within their linebacker group as they approach the new NFL season. With limited depth and proven talent, the team is considering Kyzir White, who previously played for the Arizona Cardinals, as a promising candidate to strengthen their defense. The pursuit of White reflects the Titans’ urgent desire to address vulnerabilities in their linebacker corps and improve their overall defensive performance.
Experience at a Premium for Inside Linebacker Role
ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz has drawn attention to the Titans’ struggles to find trustworthy inside linebackers on their current roster. He stated,
“The Titans don’t really have a lot of inside linebackers on the roster that they can trust,”
highlighting the scarcity of dependable options. While the team added Cody Barton from the Denver Broncos to boost the lineup, last season’s snap counts reveal the ongoing challenge: no linebacker besides Barton played more than 10.5% of defensive snaps, exposing a clear lack of established presence in the middle.
Kyzir White’s credentials make him a strong option to fill that gap. Last season with Arizona, White recorded 35 more tackles than all defenders other than Budda Baker, signaling his capacity to be a central contributor on defense. His track record of consistent and reliable play offers the Titans a chance to bring leadership and steadiness to a position currently defined by uncertainty.
Challenges and Competition Among Titans’ New Linebackers
Alongside pursuing experienced players, the Titans face the challenge of integrating rookies into their linebacker setup. Cody Barton is anticipated to fill one starting linebacker spot, but the second position is still open, contested among Cedric Gray, James Williams Sr., and Otis Reese IV. Gray, a 2024 NFL Draft pick, has suffered an early setback with a shoulder injury but remains a hopeful contributor if he can regain full health.
Meanwhile, James Williams Sr. has contributed mainly on special teams but is poised for a chance to prove his defensive value. Otis Reese IV also remains in contention, as the team seeks to identify a reliable second linebacker who can complement Barton and potentially thrive under the guidance of a veteran like White.
Preparing for a Pivotal Training Camp
With training camp scheduled to begin on July 22, the Titans are under pressure to finalize their linebacker depth chart. Adding Kyzir White could not only improve the defensive unit’s immediate effectiveness but also provide mentorship to younger teammates who are still adapting to the NFL’s demands. This combination of experience and youth offers a pathway to greater defensive cohesion and resilience.
The upcoming weeks will be decisive for Tennessee’s linebacker strategy, as the team balances rookies’ potential with the need for proven performers. White’s possible arrival might shift the dynamic from uncertainty to dependability, giving the Titans a stronger foundation on defense heading into the season.