Titans Coach Saleh Frames Preseason Defensive Blunders as Necessary Learning Curve

Key points

• Titans starters allowed a 36-yard pass and a 69-yard run for touchdowns in the first quarter against Seattle backups.
• Saleh called the errors 'easy fixes' and expressed relief that they happened during the preseason rather than the regular season.
• The Titans won 19-16, but offensive struggles persisted with Cam Ward completing 8 of 12 passes for 69 yards and no touchdowns.
• Seattle backup quarterback Drew Lock led a 79-yard touchdown drive, while undrafted running back Jacardia Wright scored a 69-yard touchdown.
• Rookie linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. recorded seven tackles and an interception, providing a positive defensive note.

Background

This game followed a rough Week 1 preseason performance where Ward struggled with accuracy. Earlier reports noted Saleh’s focus on correcting offensive mistakes and his history of coaching turnover after four consecutive 3-14 seasons. The current preseason results are being scrutinized against the backdrop of significant offseason spending on offense and the need for the defense to carry the team if the offense continues to underperform.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports highlighted Saleh’s optimistic framing of the defensive mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. NFL.com provided a broader analysis, noting that while the defense struggled, the offense’s lack of touchdowns and low yardage were more concerning for the franchise’s future. Paul Kuharsky, a former Titans scout, offered a more critical view, suggesting that the tape from the first two preseason games reveals too many holes in the roster and that the team’s practice performance may not translate to game-day success. The outlets differ in their emphasis: NBC focuses on the coach’s mindset, NFL.com on statistical performance, and Kuharsky on long-term roster viability.

Why it matters

The preseason performance raises questions about the Titans' ability to compete in the AFC South, especially with a new offensive coordinator and a second-year quarterback. If the offense does not improve, the team will rely heavily on its defense, which showed vulnerability against backups. The outcome of these preseason games could influence roster decisions and the team's trajectory in the regular season.

What to watch

The Titans will continue to refine their offensive and defensive schemes in the remaining preseason games. Cam Ward will need to improve his accuracy and decision-making, while the defense must address the fundamental errors that led to the long touchdowns. The team will also evaluate backup players like Drew Lock and Jacardia Wright for potential roster spots.