The Tennessee Titans returned to practice at St. Thomas Sports Park after an extended road trip and a win in Atlanta.

With the youth of this team, can they stay focused, carry the positive momentum through the practice week into game day on Friday, or will they falter?

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The team continues to improve its health as the season approaches, further bolstering this momentum as starting center Lloyd Cushenberry returned to practice in a limited capacity. With such a crucial player returning to the offense, the starting unit has to be buzzing about that. The defense returned depth outside linebacker Jaylin Harrell today as well.

Tense leaders

The star defensive tackle, Jeffery Simmons, resumed his chirping today, putting his hands on quarterback Cam Ward in practice, just one play after getting locked up by JC Latham. Simmons had to be escorted from practice. Not a great finish to the day for him. This has been another concerning butting of heads between the offensive and defensive leaders, particularly for Simmons.

Defensive line gelling and developing

Femi Oladejo is continuing to develop, making a positive impact with a sack and winning 2/3 reps in the 1v1 period. Ali Gaye won a rep in 1v1s. Jeffery Simmons and Dre’mont Jones created a pass breakup at the line as well in the team period. Oladejo’s development is particularly noteworthy, considering his start to preseason and camp. He is firmly making huge strides to be a key contributor.

Wide open cornerback room

With projected starting cornerback L’Jarius Sneed still not back from injury, the cornerback room remains wide open. Jarvis Brownlee created multiple pass breakups today, and Roger McCreary created one as well. Beyond those two, it’s a wide-open race. Darrell Baker dropped an INT. Marcus Harris and Kendell Brooks both looked very solid today and have the best shot of winning that temporarily third cornerback spot.

O-Line taking shape

With Cushenberry returning today, the Titans have their projected starting five offensive linemen on the practice field. This will feel reassuring to Cam Ward and the rest of the offense. Rookie offensive lineman Jackson Slater is developing nicely and won the majority of his reps today. He most likely has an inside track to be the 2nd string interior offensive lineman. Dan Moore, the polarizing but much-needed free agency signing, also spoke on his promising development with Offensive Line Coach Bill Callahan:

Rough Receivers

Wide receiver Calvin Ridley continues to star in this offense with his elusive and fluid route running, being the recipient of a Cam Ward TD pass today. Wide receiver Bryce Oliver displayed excellent toughness today as well. He had a good catch in the middle of the field. Lockett had a day to forget dropping a ball that was in his hands. Jefferson seems to be ruing the drop on Friday night and his performance today. He was spotted hitting the Jugs machine after practice.

This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Titans training camp: 5 takeaways from Monday’s practice