Marcus Mariota is not concerned about a true No.1 wide receiver. The Tennessee Titans are letting their new slew of receivers battle it out during mini camps and training camp to determine who gets the nod as the starting three. The Titans loaded up on receiving talent in both free agency and in the NFL Draft. Mariota told the media that he is not worried about finding a favorite target, but instead looking to just push the offense with whomever is on the field.
The Titans have Justin Hunter and Kendall Wright battling it out as the returning receivers. Harry Douglas and Hakeem Nicks are the proven veterans. Dorial Green-Beckham is the new rookie. Everyone wants to be the starter and everyone wants to develop into the top threat. However, Mariota is not looking to play a role in that position battle.
"I don't think you can key in on one guy, the defenses in this league are too smart for that," Mariota said, via ESPN.com. "So for me, I'm just going to build a relationship with every guy, learn how every guy is, build that chemistry and be ready to go. It comes down to executing every play that the coaches ask from you. I'm not too big on having a favorite play or having a favorite receiver. I think if you're able to distribute the ball to everybody, everyone is going to make plays for you and you'll put your offense in the best situation."
The Titans have put a lot of players on notice. With Green-Beckham expected to contend for a starting job, both Hunter and Wright have been told they need to step up. Meanwhile, Nicks is looking to prove that he is still a strong receiver despite a dramatic ending with the New York Giants and a forgettable season with the Indianapolis Colts. The veteran told the media that he expects to be a top player this season.
"(I'm) motivated, determined and ready to work. I am ready to bring it all and lay it on the line, man," Nicks said, via the Indianapolis Star. "I just want to get back in the rhythm of being talked about as one of the best receivers in the league, as I was in the past. I believe I can, but I need to go out there and prove it. No need to say words."
Mariota has been leaning heavily on Delanie Walker, the Titans top tight end and No.1 receiver last year. Walker does not believe that type of season will happen again as he expects receivers to be more involved. It also helps that players like Jalston Fowler is also experience in catching passes out of the backfield which should open up the offense.
