Titans Running Backs Set for Training Camp Battles

Six Running Backs Headed to Nashville

The Tennessee Titans will officially open training camp on July 28 when the veterans assemble at Vanderbilt Health Football Camp in Nashville. Coach Mike Borgonzi and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh have decided against major roster overhaul, keeping the core intact. Six backs are on the offseason roster: Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, Nicholas Singleton, Julius Chestnut, Kalel Mullings and Michael Carter. The group will compete for spots as the Titans prepare for another season.

Pollard, Spears and Singleton are already considered locks for the 53‑man roster. The remaining three—Chestnut, Mullings and Carter—are vying for the final roster spot or special‑teams contribution. Chestnut brings veteran reliability and proven work on coverage units, while Mullings, a former linebacker, offers special‑teams upside despite a disappointing rookie year. Carter, who previously played under Saleh, provides insurance with a skill set similar to Spears, though his injury history raises concerns.

Core Rushing Plan Focus on Pollard & Spears

The Titans’ biggest storyline revolves around keeping the rushing attack anchored by Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. Even with some back‑end additions, the club’s ground game will lean heavily on the pair’s proven abilities. An improved passing offense, led by quarterback Cam Ward and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, could give the run game extra room to operate. The combination of a stronger pass attack and Pollard‑Spears stability aims to keep the team competitive in the AFC South.

The success of the ground‑and‑pound approach will also depend on how much playing time the starters receive and how quickly the backup options develop. Singletom, a sixth‑round rookie, is seen as a potential long‑term building block, though he is unlikely to earn heavy workloads in 2026. The coaching staff’s decision to maintain the existing core suggests they view Pollard and Spears as the foundation for both rushing and roster construction.

Tyjae Spears’ Contract Year Pressure

Spears enters 2026 as a contract‑year player after missing several games in both 2024 and 2025 due to lingering health issues. He has yet to secure an extension with the Titans, and Coach Borgonzi did not draft him, leaving his future uncertain. The fan base will watch closely to see if Spears can stay healthy enough to claim a larger role or prove his worth for a new deal. A strong camp could shift the narrative and give him leverage in contract discussions.

Nicholas Singleton Poised for Breakout?

The excitement surrounding the Titans’ backfield isn’t limited to the veterans; rookie Nicholas Singleton has drawn attention for his explosiveness and athleticism from Penn State. Singleton’s skill set makes him a candidate for future contributions, especially with Pollard and Spears both in contract years. However, expectations remain modest for his first season, with scouts viewing him as a developing project rather than an immediate impact player. How quickly he adapts to the NFL level will determine whether he can become a legitimate option beyond the rookie year.

Depth Battle for the Final Backspot

Beyond the guaranteed trio, the competition for the final roster spot will hinge on performance and versatility. Julius Chestnut brings experience and reliable special‑team play, which can be invaluable for a roster looking to trim costs. Kalel Mullings, despite a shaky start, still possesses the tool set of a former linebacker that could prove useful on coverage teams. Michael Carter, familiar with Saleh’s system, offers a complementary skill set to Spears and could serve as insurance against injuries. The outcome of this internal race will shape the Titans’ depth chart heading into the regular season.