#Titans DC Dennard Wilson said the ILB position next to Cody Barton is “extremely wide open.” Wilson said everyone is getting an opportunity to rotate. They’re even mixing Mike and Will with Barton shifting to Will while Cedric Gray plays some Mike.

— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) May 28, 2025

One question mark for the Tennessee Titans heading into Phase 3 and organized team activities (OTAs) is at inside linebacker, and who will start next to free agent acquisition Cody Barton in the revamped unit.

The Titans have gone in a new direction in 2025, and their room looks completely different from what it did in 2024.

With Barton penciled in as one starter, it appears that Otis Reese, Cedric Gray, or James Williams have the inside track to line up next to him. While he did not give any insight on who may currently be leading the charge, defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson said the battle is wide open at this stage, and they are throwing everyone into the mix. 

This likely includes new waiver wire additions Anfernee Orji and Amari Burney, along with undrafted rookie free agent David Gbenda, who all have a chance to open some eyes during practices. 

While Wilson is focused on those in Nashville for OTAs, many outlets believe that Tennessee could add a veteran to the mix before the start of training camp, with some solid options still available, such as Kyzir White or C.J. Mosley. 

For second ILB spot, work in pads will be the separator, Brian Callahan said. #Titans

— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) May 28, 2025

With a final decision on the starter months away, when pads come on in training camp, the staff will have a good sense of whether that player is already on the roster or if they need to go outside and add a veteran. That makes the following eight practices crucial for these young players as they strive to make a positive impression on the coaching staff.