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Wide receiver is the home of one of Titan training camp’s most competitive position battles. Recently-waived Mike Williams was the first casualty in the all-out-war for playing time at WR.
The notorious injury bug will prevent Roydell Williams (ankle), Justin McCareins (hamstring) and Biren Ealy (groin) from playing in tomorrow’s preseason opener against the Rams.
Their absences have created opportunities for other guys on the roster to stake their claims in the WR playing time derby. Who will step up on Saturday night?

Brandon Jones has the talent, but has failed to consistently produce so far in his NFL career. Jones is once again teasing us by putting his tantalizing abilities on display in training camp while making plays out of the slot position.
With a slew of injuries at WR, tomorrow is a great opportunity for Brandon to get his make-or-break season off to a fast start.
On Saturday night, Paul Williams will attempt to do something that he failed to accomplish during the 2007 regular season: catch a pass. Paul W. has turned the heads of the coaching staff in training camp, and is expected to bounce back from a humbling rookie season.
With his size, Paul has the ability to out-jump defenders and could develop into a solid red zone threat. Hopefully, Vince, Kerry or even Ingle will give Paul the opportunity to showcase his jumping ability tomorrow night.
The rookies will also have their chance to shine against the Rams. Lavelle Hawkins is showing early signs of becoming a contributor in the Titans’ passing game as early as 2008. Twenty-five year old rookie WR Ed Williams is more of a long-shot to make the 53- man roster, but if he continues to improve, the practice squad is his likely destination.
I hope that Hawkins plays early so he can have the chance to catch some of Vince Young’s passes against the Rams. Don’t be surprised if tomorrow is a coming out party of sorts for Lavelle.
The Chris Davis duo should also get some playing time. The old Chris Davis is in a battle for playing time at WR and is also in the mix for the punt returning gig. The new Chris Davis is still in the process of learning the playbook and with the injuries at WR, should also see some p/t against the Rams.
I didn’t mention Justin Gage, who by most accounts, will likely be the Titans’ #1 WR next year. His spot in the rotation is already solidified.
So what do you guys think? Which WR are we going to be raving about after Saturday night’s contest?

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