As a result of this weekend’s trade of LenDale White to the Seattle Seahawks, the Tennessee Titans are faced with an interesting situation at the running back position.
Of course, all-world runner Chris Johnson will continue to serve as the Titans’ primary ball-carrier but behind him is where things get a bit intriguing.
Outside of CJ, the rest of the Tennessee Titans’ running backs have combined to run for only 286 yards in the NFL. The paltry amount of yardage comes from two sources: second-year running back Javon Ringer and journeyman Alvin Pearman.
Of the two backs, Ringer is undoubtedly the one that the Titans will be counting on to serve as CJ’s primary backup in 2010. Ringer’s a tough runner with excellent vision who showed us what he was capable of doing while toting the rock last preseason. He’s a guy who produced highly at a big-time college program but fell in the draft due to some durability and injury concerns as a result of getting “over-used” at Michigan State.
As for the other guy mentioned earlier, Pearman’s experience running the football took place during the first two years of his career: he hasn’t had a carry since 2006. Unless he stands out as a returner, something that he failed to accomplish in his limited experience last year, it’s anything but a guarantee that he’ll even be a part of the team’s roster in 2010.
The rest of the team’s untested depth at the RB position just arrived in Nashville in the form of undrafted free agents. USC’s Stafon Johnson is an incredible story, as he nearly died in a horrific weight lifting accident last year. He’s got some ability and considering what he’s overcome, he’s definitely a guy you want to root for as he attempts to make it in the NFL.
At the opposite end of the feel-good spectrum is the plight of another Titan undrafted free agent RB: Oregon’s LeGarrette Blount. Suspended for several games due to an unforgettable punch delivered to an opposing Boise State player, despite his intriguing size (6’1″, 241 lbs) and talent, Blount is considered a risk due to his perceived character issues.
Rounding out the team’s UFA signings at RB is East Carolina’s Dominique Lindsay, who overcame a signfiicant knee injury to rush for over 1,000 yards in 2009. Of course, East Carolina is also where Chris Johnson attended school, so you’ll probably get no complaints from CJ regarding the team’s decision to sign Lindsay.
Speaking of CJ, as long as he stays healthy, obviously, the team will be in excellent shape at RB this year and beyond. I’m also excited about Ringer’s abilities and will be looking forward to see if he can take advantage of the opportunity for increased playing time due to LenDale’s departure.
As for the undrafted free agents, considering the team’s lack of depth at RB, I wouldn’t be shocked if one of the guys make the roster in 2010. Johnson is probably the guy everyone will be cheering for but if Blount can control his temper, he has the size and the ability to play in this league.
What are your thoughts on the Titans’ inexperienced depth at RB? Feel free to contribute your thoughts in the comments section below.
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