By Ron Wynn
NASHVILLE, TN — No one can say for sure if there will be an NFL season, but at least the Tennessee Titans have resolved their two biggest question marks. Last week outside linebacker Vic Beasley finally reported to training camp, even though he was two days late. The Titans last Friday shifted Beasley from the reserve-did not report list to the active list. Why he reported late remains a mystery, at least to the public. Beasley had to take and pass three negative COVID-19 tests over a four-day period before he could enter the team’s facility.
The Titans fined Beasley $500,000 for a 10-day unexcused absence. Back in March he signed a one-year, `$9.5 million dollar deal. There were whispers and rumors that his time in Atlanta didn’t end well due to a lack of motivation and desire to play, but the Titans thus far have not let any of that seep into their discussions regarding the unexcused absence. The players have mostly expressed only a desire to meet and acclimate him to the team and defensive system.
The coaches, most notably head coach Mike Vrabel, have also been welcoming, while expressing some frustration with the lack of explanation for his behavior. But Beasley’s 37.5 sacks in his first five years remain the most attractive and intriguing part of his resume. The Titans also signed first round pick tackle Isiah Wilson to a rookie deal, completing the roster. They did make one other move late last week, placing defensive lineman Jack Crawford on the reserve-did not report list.
But otherwise, they now have the roster in place they hope can take the team to the next step, back to the Super Bowl for the first time since 1999.
