Could CB Joshua Williams play a bigger role than Titans fans realize?

Feb 7, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) during a press conference before Super Bowl LVIII at Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

Much is being made about the Tennessee Titans’ supposed ongoing struggles in the secondary. It was undeniably disappointing to watch San Francisco 49ers backup quarterback Kurtis Rourke complete 12-of-14 passes against the Titans’ starting secondary in the first preseason game. Starting quarterback Cam Ward has also routinely carved up the starters for most of training camp.

Head coach Robert Saleh isn’t panicking, but recently admitted there should be a sense of urgency. Understandably so. The Titans committed more than $100 million in free agency to new starting cornerbacks Cor’Dale Flott and Alontae Taylor, and they’ve been at the forefront of the struggles.

With the Titans doing some soul searching, you wonder if cornerback Joshua Williams could contribute something positive at cornerback. He was the third cornerback the Titans signed in free agency earlier this offseason. His shared history with Mike Borgonzi and the Kansas City Chiefs made him a target.

Williams has been wearing a yellow non-contact jersey at training camp due to a pectoral muscle injury. Coach Saleh recently claimed he’s close to shedding that jersey and being a full participant at practice. Saleh also praised his length and work ethic, and Jim Wyatt noted he had a pass breakup during individual drills earlier this week.

Saleh: CB Joshua Williams getting closer to where he's cleared for full contact (is currently wearing a yellow jersey because of pec injury) @Titans

— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) August 17, 2026

Williams is long and competitive. He possesses the physical profile Coach Saleh prefers in his cornerbacks. If Taylor and Flott struggle into the regular season, perhaps Williams will start getting worked into the rotation. For now, he’s simply focused on being healthy enough to contribute once his number is called.

Williams was signed to essentially play the Darrell Baker Jr. role from last season. He’s the top reserve cornerback who can play starting reps if Taylor or Flott get injured. The Titans’ secondary is fluid as they search for answers. Perhaps Williams can provide one.