NASHVILLE, Tenn. – For the second year in a row, the Titans are among the NFL's top teams in playing time for rookies.
Through 12 games, Titans rookies have played 2,167 snaps, which is ranked 7th in the NFL.
"I think it's pretty close to last year exactly, to be honest with you. Very close to the class from last year," Titans coach Mike Mularkey said. "I think it's been very productive. We've asked them to do a lot, just like we did last year with those guys. I'm pretty pleased. It's been a good class."
Mularkey is right. A year ago the Titans finished the year ranked 7th in snaps for rookies, with 3,552. At this point last season, the Titans were 7th with 2,480 snaps.
Titans rookie Adoree' Jackson, selected 18th overall, has started all 12 games at cornerback for the Titans, and he's also played on offense and special teams. Jackson leads not only the rookies, but the entire team in snaps with 944. That's currently the third-highest total in the NFL.
First-round pick Corey Davis has started five straight games after missing a stretch early, and fellow receiver Taywan Taylor has played in all 12 games as well.
Tight end Jonnu Smith and linebacker Jayon Brown have played key roles as well while playing in all 12 games.
Brown has played 558 snaps, while Smith is right behind him with 522. Despite missing five games, Davis is now above 300 snaps for the season, while Taylor is closing in to 300 with his offensive snaps and special teams snaps combined.
The 49ers lead the NFL in rookie snaps, with 3,498.
At this point of the season, Mularkey doesn't consider the first-year players rookies any more.
"That went out a while back," Mularkey said. "They've got enough football under their belts right now to take that off of them."
Top draft picks Corey Davis and Adoree' Jackson are introduced at Saint Thomas Sports Park. (Photos: Gary Glenn)
