One of the more riveting breakthroughs during the Titans May/June mini-camps has been the emergence of Justin McCareins. Roydell Williams lingering ankle injury has enabled McCareins to become the favorite for the starting wide receiver position opposite of another Justin (Gage).
Is the Justin McCareins story merely another example of a training camp mirage, or will he be a source of hydration for a thirsty Tennessee Titan passing offense desperate for an oasis?
It is often said that the grass is greener on the other side. Justins tenure as a New York Jet was financially greener as a result of the seven-year $27 million contract he signed after being traded from the Titans in 2004.
However, his time with the Jets was a frustrating experience, marked by dropped passes at inopportune times as well as an overall lack of production for a guy that was acquired for a second-round draft pick.
Since returning to the Titans, Justin has been a pleasant surprise during mini-camp. Reunited with new/old Titan offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger, McCareins is playing with the moxie of a veteran expecting to play a big role in the offense next season.
The battle for playing time at WR should be one of the more interesting aspects of training camp this season. Universally condemned for their decision to eschew the temptation of acquiring the services of an authentic #1 WR, the Titans will instead rely on younger players and reclamation projects such as McCareins to provide a boost to one of the leagues worst passing offenses in 2007.
As the case with a man possessing an insatiable thirst in the midst of his travels through the desert, the Titans are in dire need of a playmaker in their passing game. Hopefully, McCareins performance thus far is a sign of an oasis, rather than a mirage.
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