Many are sleeping on this Tennessee Titans squad which might work in the team's favor. In recent years, this franchise has thrived any time they're viewed as the underdog. Even so, they're going to need everyone to step up if they hope to repeat for a third consecutive AFC South divisional title. For that reason, we look at two hidden gems on the Titans roster in 2022.
The loss of AJ Brown hurts, but that means a new star will form. Tennessee is likely to maintain their run-first approach, especially with Treylon Burks adjusting to the professional level. However, the Titans proved they don't have to rely on Derrick Henry last year, which opens up an opportunity for rotational running back to shine.
Meanwhile, this defense is trending towards elite status. They have the potential to be a top-three unit in the league which will keep the franchise competitive. Although there are numerous big names on this side of the ball, there is one hidden gem lurking in the Titans' secondary. If he puts the pieces together, this defense will be impenetrable.
With that said, here are two hidden gems on the Titans roster in the 2022 season.
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Titans Hidden Gems On 2022 Roster
Dontrell Hilliard
Hype has generated around rookie running back Hassan Haskins, however, the main backup role likely belongs to Dontrell Hilliard to start the year. Derrick Henry is going to get his fair share of work, as he is the driving force of this offense. However, the Titans proved they can run the ball effectively without him, which is a great sign for The King and Hilliard alike.
He filled in periodically last year for Tennessee after Henry's injury. The veteran running back served as a solid backup option behind D'Onta Foreman in the back half of the season. Now, it's looking like Dontrell Hilliard will have a chance to be Henry's immediate backup which makes him a legitimate hidden gem candidate for the Titans.
The veteran running back played well in his limited role last year. With 56 rush attempts, Dontrell Hilliard ended up with 350 yards and two touchdowns. Additionally, his 6.3 yards per attempt average made him a human lightning bolt. The Titans will give him an opportunity to back up Derrick Henry which could result in a unique power/speed duo for Tennessee.
Amani Hooker
While much of the attention is on Jeffery Simmons and the front seven, the front office has quietly built a powerhouse in the secondary. Kevin Byard will lead the way again and he'll have consistent help from Kristian Fulton, Elijah Molden, and hopefully Caleb Farley. However, Amani Hooker deserves more attention than he's receiving, as he is on the verge of a breakout year with the Titans.
He had his first real chance at playing time last season, starting 12 of the 17 games. Hooker recorded career-high numbers, totaling 62 tackles and two forced turnovers. With most opposing offenses pinpointing Byard, Amani Hooker will have a chance to become a major player for the Titans' defense.
He made some big plays for Tennessee throughout last season as he's steadily improved his game over the years. It's awesome to see Amani Hooker climb the depth chart, as he began his career on special teams. Now, he has a real opportunity to prove himself as a legit playmaker. If it pans out, then the Titans might just have the best safety duo in the NFL.
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