Tennessee Titans: 5 Players set for breakout seasons in 2017
2. LeShaun Sims, CB
The new toys Adoree Jackson and Logan Ryan are getting most of the hype amongst the cornerbacks heading into the season. But it is LeShaun Sims that may very well end up being the starting outside corner opposite Logan Ryan in Week 1.
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The size between Sims and Jackson is going to be a factor in how Dick Lebeau utilizes his corners. It is just a matter of how big that factor is, and how they perform in camp. Sims has the much sturdier frame at 6-0, 203 pounds. Jackson on the other hand is all of 5-11, 185 pounds.
This difference is critical in a league where receivers are growing upwards and outwards. Take week two in Jacksonville, for example. Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns are both listed at 6-3. If Sims performs adequately in training camp, I cannot see how Lebeau pairs Ryan, also 5-11, with Jackson. More bulk on the perimeter is needed in matchups like these.
A fifth-round pick out of Southern Utah last year, not much was expected of Sims. But similar to Byard, he came on strong towards the end of the season with an expanded role. Sims started two games and registered 16 tackles and a quietly good six passes defended in the last six games of 2016.
Building on this confidence and growth from the rookie season, Sims is a guy who I am eager follow in training camp. He may just be your CB2, for now.