Tyjae Spears Is Motivated for More Success in Year 2, Possibly as Titans' Featured Running Back

Tennessee Titans legend Derrick Henry is a pending free agent, so backup running back Tyjae Spears is preparing mentally for the spotlight: "You are supposed to be here, so show not just yourself but the world you are supposed to be here."

NASHVILLE — Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears enters his first NFL offseason hoping to build on the success from his rookie year. 

This time last year, Spears was preparing for the NFL Scouting Combine. Now, he's been through the crucible of a season in the league and is ready for more. 

"Of course, as a rookie, you are not going to have everything down pat your first year," Spears told tennesseetitans.com. "So a lot of learning experiences from the year, and the biggest thing going through my mind is details, details, details.

"Like right now, it hits me day in and day out: You are supposed to be here, so show not just yourself but the world you are supposed to be here. I am super excited for what's next."

Spears spoke to Wyatt in Las Vegas last week during the buildup to the Super Bowl. The running back discussed how he handled his first professional coaching transition when the Titans fired Mike Vrabel and hired Brian Callahan. 

"I let the front office do their job, and I'm going to do my job," Spears said. "And my job is to go in there and compete day in and day out. I'm not going to say it don't make a difference who is in there, but I am going to be the same person. I hate for things to happen like they happened, but everything happens for a reason."

"Everybody is saying he's (Callahan) a great guy, great coach. And he has a great plan in store. So, we'll see."

Spears rushed for 453 yards and scored two touchdowns, in addition to catching 52 passes for 385 yards and one touchdown last season while sharing a backfield with legendary Titans running back Derrick Henry, who is a pending free agent. Spears relished the experience. 

"It was super-fun (being his teammate)," Spears said. "I felt like the times that we had, it was cool. Of course, me being a younger guy, I don't want him to go. But whatever is the best for his future, he has to do what he has to do."

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