The Tennessee Titans entered training camp thinking James Williams would be the starting linebacker opposite free-agent signing Cody Barton. It wasn't until multiple weeks into camp and the preseason that fellow sophomore Cedric Gray began emerging as a contender. Gray eventually won the offseason position battle, and hasn't looked back since.
Gray has dominated snaps at linebacker from Week 1 onward. In recent contests, the former North Carolina standout has especially played an outstanding brand of football. It's been earning him praise from head coach Brian Callahan.
Gray's rookie campaign was completely derailed by injury.