The Tennessee Titans finished off a perfect preseason with a 30-27 victory over the New Orleans Saints in the last preseason game of 2024. This final tune-up saw the starters take the field after sitting out the Week 2 contest, and they appear ready for the regular season. But it was the reserves that propelled the Titans to victory.
One of the young players who made a huge impact was this week’s player of the game, Bryce Oliver.
While some may see Titans quarterback Malik Willis as the catalyst, it was the rookie receiver who hauled in two fourth-quarter touchdowns to help secure the victory. The 6-1, 214-pound undrafted rookie free agent has been a consistent threat during training camp and ended the preseason with a bang, hauling in three passes for 52 yards and two crucial touchdown grabs.
The Titans signed Oliver out of Youngstown State in May, where he tallied 147 receptions for 2,065 yards and 26 touchdowns in his career. In joining the Titans, he faces an uphill battle for a roster spot in a deep receiving corps. However, his ability to play both outside and in the slot adds to his overall value.
Oliver has been building momentum in recent days. He also appeared to steal the show at the final opening practice. That day, he led all receivers with five catches and made plays. Still, this may not be enough for him to grab a roster spot.
With DeAndre Hopkins, Calvin Ridley, and Tyler Boyd entrenched at the top of the depth chart and higher-pedigree players such as Treylon Burks ahead of him, it is an uphill climb to make the final 53. But his versatility and momentum may open some eyes within the staff or across the league.
