When the Titans moved on from Chris Johnson, they parted ways with one of the NFL’s true featured backs. Whether you love Johnson’s game or not, he was durable, dependable and versatile for Tennessee. He sat out but one game in six seasons with the Titans, and he could be used in just about any situation.
Now, the Titans are essentially starting over in the backfield. Second-round pick Bishop Sankey looks likely to play a major role, and veteran tailback Shonn Greene will probably also get some work, too.
With this lack of a standout runner comes an opportunity for the Titans’ backs. Sankey likely has a real chance to take this job and make it his. The door is also open for Greene to earn more carries than a season ago, when he received just seven per game behind Johnson. However, Greene is coming off right knee surgery.
The backs down the depth chart also have a chance to shine. Take undrafted rookie Antonio Andrews, who will try to capture a reserve role for Tennessee.
Andrews told the Nashville Tennessean he knows he needs to make the most of his opportunities with the club.
“You’ve got to show that you’re trustworthy, that they can depend on you no matter what situation they put you in,” Andrews said, per the Tennessean‘s David Climer.
Dependability could be the determining factor for Andrews, especially when he’s competing against a back like veteran backup Jackie Battle, who’s made a living doing a little bit of everything. But there’s room for a fresh face to make an impact in Tennessee with Johnson gone. Sankey is the probably favorite to fill that role, but if that doesn’t pan out, then who knows?