Titans Linebacker Battle Sets Stage for Training Camp

Schemes and Priorities in Robert Saleh’s 4‑3 Defense

The Titans’ training‑camp preview series nears its final stretch as rookies report in less than a week. This week Titans Wire shifts focus from the offensive line to the defensive unit, zeroing in on the linebacker spot in Robert Saleh’s attacking 4‑3 scheme. In Saleh’s system, linebackers serve as the hinge between pass coverage and run stopping, making the competition especially vital for the team’s early‑season lineup.

Two familiar faces—Cedric Gray and Cody Barton—are expected to anchor the base defense, though questions linger about Barton’s fit after a shaky 2025 season. A third starter will emerge from a pool that includes veteran James Williams Sr., rookie Anthony Hill Jr., and Mohamoud Diabate, while depth battles also involve Dorian Mausi and Shad Banks Jr. Gray’s solid rookie season as a starter positions him as a cornerstone of the new scheme, and pairing him with Hill creates a promising talent combination.

Anthony Hill brings size and upside to a group that already contains a seasoned starter. Observers wonder how quickly the rookie can translate his draft pedigree into on‑field reps. If Hill beats Barton for a spot, the former safety’s ascent could reshape the linebacker depth chart. Meanwhile, Barton must show improved consistency to keep Hill and the others at bay.

James Williams Sr. was viewed as a rising threat before camp, but he lost ground to Gray in last year’s competition and never delivered the impact many expected. His versatility as a former safety gives the Titans a potential wildcard if he can lock in as a steady playmaker. Williams’ resurgence could open a third starting role if the coaching staff sees the needed coverage skills.

Mohamoud Diabate signed as a free agent this offseason and appears locked in as a reliable special‑teams contributor and depth piece. He offers experience that can complement the younger corps. Dorian Mausi and Shad Banks Jr. round out the linebacker room, competing for secondary depth and special‑teams roles that will be crucial in a fast‑paced defensive scheme.

The linebacker competition will be a focal point as pads hit and live drills begin. With Gray’s proven performance, Hill’s upside, and the unresolved questions surrounding Barton and Williams, the Titans face a tight race for the starting lineup. The eventual arrangement will shape how Robert Saleh’s defense looks when the regular season kicks off.