Development Plans for Tennessee Titans Youngsters

In the NFL, sustained success depends on more than just signing star free agents—it requires nurturing young talent, turning rookies and emerging players into reliable contributors who embody the team’s culture. The Tennessee Titans understand this principle deeply, which is why they’ve built comprehensive Development Plans for Tennessee Titans Youngsters designed to accelerate growth on and off the field. These plans aren’t one-size-fits-all; they’re tailored to each player’s position, skill set, and potential, balancing structured coaching with real-game experience. For rookies fresh out of college and second/third-year players still finding their footing, the Titans’ approach provides a clear path to success—one that prioritizes fundamentals, mental preparation, and character development. Whether it’s a first-round draft pick or an undrafted free agent, every young Titan receives the tools, support, and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.

Development Plans for Tennessee Titans Youngsters begin with a rigorous offseason program that lays the groundwork for the regular season. For rookies, this starts with a “Rookie Orientation Camp” held shortly after the NFL Draft, where they learn the Titans’ playbook, meet coaching staff and teammates, and adjust to the professional lifestyle. The camp includes daily meetings to break down offensive and defensive schemes, film study sessions to analyze their own performance and that of NFL veterans at their position, and strength and conditioning workouts tailored to their physical needs. For example, a rookie offensive lineman might spend extra time with offensive line coach Jason Houghtaling, working on hand placement and footwork in one-on-one drills, while a rookie wide receiver would focus on route running and timing with quarterbacks in group sessions. Second-year players, meanwhile, take on more responsibility—they’re expected to lead small group drills during OTAs (Organized Team Activities) and mentor incoming rookies, reinforcing their own knowledge while helping others. “The offseason is when the foundation is built,” says Titans head coach Mike Vrabel. “Young players need to understand our system inside out before they step on the field in September. That’s why we invest so much time in this phase.”

A cornerstone of Development Plans for Tennessee Titans Youngsters is the mentorship program, which pairs every young player with a veteran teammate who shares their position or role. This “veteran-mentor” relationship goes beyond football—mentors help youngsters navigate the demands of the NFL, from managing media interviews to balancing work and personal life. For instance, when rookie running back Hassan Haskins joined the Titans in 2022, he was paired with star running back Derrick Henry. Henry not only taught Haskins the nuances of the Titans’ run game (like reading defensive fronts and adjusting to blitzes) but also shared advice on recovery techniques and maintaining focus during long seasons. “Derrick took me under his wing from day one,” Haskins recalls. “He’d stay after practice to work on drills with me, and he’d text me before games to calm my nerves. Having that support made all the difference.” Defensive rookies benefit similarly—rookie cornerback Tre Avery was paired with veteran cornerback Kristian Fulton, who helped him study opposing wide receivers and refine his coverage skills. The mentorship program not only speeds up on-field development but also builds camaraderie, ensuring young players feel connected to the team’s culture.

Development Plans for Tennessee Titans Youngsters also include strategic game-time opportunities, balancing the need for experience with the team’s win-now goals. The Titans use a “gradual exposure” approach for most young players: they start by playing special teams (where they can contribute immediately while learning the pace of NFL games), then earn rotational snaps on offense or defense as they prove themselves. For example, undrafted free agent linebacker Jack Gibbens joined the Titans in 2022 and spent the first half of the season on special teams, making tackles on kickoff and punt returns. By midseason, he’d impressed coaches with his work ethic and football IQ, earning spot snaps on defense in run-heavy packages. By the playoffs, Gibbens was a key rotational player, recording a sack in the Titans’ Wild Card win. “We don’t throw young players into the fire unless they’re ready, but we also don’t let them sit on the bench and watch all season,” says Titans general manager Jon Robinson. “Special teams is a great way for them to contribute while gaining confidence. Once they show they can handle that, we give them more responsibility.” For the Tennessee Titans, this approach ensures young players develop without compromising the team’s competitiveness—a balance that’s crucial for long-term success.

Another vital component of Development Plans for Tennessee Titans Youngsters is off-field development, which focuses on building character, financial literacy, and community engagement. The Titans partner with local organizations to offer workshops on topics like budgeting, investing, and post-football career planning, helping young players prepare for life beyond the NFL. They also require all rookies to participate in community service activities—such as visiting local schools, volunteering at food banks, or hosting youth football clinics—teaching them the importance of giving back to the Nashville community. For example, in 2023, rookie quarterback Will Levis spent time at a Nashville middle school, talking to students about the importance of education and hard work, and leading a football drill session during recess. “Football is only a small part of these players’ lives,” says Titans community relations director Brittany Smith. “We want to help them grow into well-rounded individuals who make a positive impact on and off the field.” The team also provides access to mental health resources, including sports psychologists who help young players manage the pressure of the NFL and cope with setbacks like injuries or limited playing time. For the Tennessee Titans, off-field development is just as important as on-field skills—it ensures young players thrive as people, not just athletes.

Looking ahead, Development Plans for Tennessee Titans Youngsters will continue to evolve, incorporating new technologies and feedback from players and coaches. The Titans are exploring the use of virtual reality (VR) to enhance film study, allowing young players to “step into” game situations and practice making split-second decisions. They’re also expanding their mentorship program to include former Titans players, who can share insights from their own careers and help youngsters navigate the unique challenges of the NFL. For example, former Titans quarterback Steve McNair (via recorded sessions and family-led initiatives) now serves as a “legacy mentor,” with his career highlights and leadership lessons integrated into rookie development sessions. “We’re always looking for ways to improve,” says Vrabel. “Young players today learn differently than they did 10 years ago, so we need to adapt our approach to meet them where they are.” For the Tennessee Titans, investing in young talent isn’t just a strategy—it’s a commitment to building a franchise that competes year after year, with a roster full of players who understand and embrace what it means to be a Titan. As Robinson puts it, “Our development plan is about more than creating good football players. It’s about creating good Titans—players who make this team and this community proud.”