Tennessee Titans Roster Rundown: Running Backs

It's time to go through the current roster of the Tennessee Titans, and the running back position is up next

George Walker IV / Tennessean.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

NASHVILLE - As the 2023 NFL season draws closer, it's time to begin our run-through of the Tennessee Titans roster,  and now it's time to look at the running backs, where there wasn't much debate until recently. 

THE PLAYERS 

Derrick Henry, Tyjae Spears, Hassan Haskins, Jonathan Ward, Julius Chestnut, and Chuck McClelland

Starter: Henry, of course, and there is no debate. The King returns for perhaps his final season ruling the running back room for the Titans and is searching for another banner rushing season.  

Backup: Tyjae Spears is likely to be more than just the backup, as he is slated to spend time as both running back and receiver. He will be the change of pace back and get most of any carries not destined for Henry.    

Depth: Here's where it could now become a question. 

Haskins was a lock to make this roster before the ugly details of his recent felony arrest, where he allegedly strangled his life-in girlfriend following an altercation in their home. Now, he could be on shaky ground with the organization, given that he has embarrassed the team. 

At the same time, the most recent arrest of a Titan, former offensive coordinator Todd Downing for DUI last season did not draw an immediate dismissal. That said, while Downing embarrassed the franchise, his was not a felony involving physical violence. 

I'm not predicting Haskins demise, but it is a possibility now that it didn't exist when the Titans exited minicamp. 

Chestnut is well thought of and liked, having managed to hang on last season as an undrafted rookie signee from tiny Sacred Heart University.   

Both Ward and McClelland showed flashes during recent practices, Each will get the chance to continue to compete with Haskins and Chestnut, and it could be an interesting few weeks as this competition unfolds,  

George Walker IV / Tennessean.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

How It Ends: That's a great question. Haskins could still hang on, but until we get into camp and see what transpires, it's hard to guess how this group shakes out. 

At the risk of being wrong-perhaps again- I'm going with Haskins and Chestnut to hang on here, with McClelland and Ward fighting for a place on the practice squad. 

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