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Five Titans facing a make-or-break season in 2015
The Tennessee Titans are in the midst of a rebuilding process centered around rookie quarterback Marcus Mariota and second-year left tackle Taylor Lewan.
Beyond those Mariota and Lewan, there aren't many players on the roster that would be considered untouchable and a number enter 2015 needing to have a solid season to ensure they'll still be in Nashville in 2016.
These five players face a make-or-break season with the Titans in 2015.
Andy Levitre, guard
Levitre has largely failed to expectations since signing a six-year, $46.8 million deal in 2013. The Titans lack of depth along the offensive line will work in his favor this season, but if he fails to make an impact again, he could find himself in jeopardy.
The 29-year-old Levitre carries a cap number of $8.6 million each of the next three seasons and cutting him next offseason could save the Titans $4.4 million if done before June 1 or, $6.5 million after that date.
Brian Schwenke, center
Schwenke, a 2013 fourth-round pick, started 11 games line last season before tearing his MCL. He enters training camp as the favorite to start once again, but he'll need to stay healthy and prove he's effective.
The Titans spent a sixth-round pick this year on another center, Andy Gallik of Boston College, and if Schwenke doesn't prove he's the long-term answer at the position, they may give Gallik a shot.
Dexter McCluster, running back
The Titans have second-year back Bishop Sankey and rookie David Cobb at the position. Unless McCluster has a strong season and makes himself invaluable as a returner on special teams, the former second-round pick may be looking for a new team after the season.
The Titans would save $2.65 million by releasing McCluster before the start of 2016.
Ropati Pitoitua, defensive lineman
Pitoitua played in 12 games last season as a backup, recording 30 tackles and two sacks. The 30-year-old needs a strong year to prove his value.
The Titans have others ahead of him on the depth chart and he's slated to make nearly $4 million next year. There may be better value to be found in the draft and cutting him would save $3.25 million in 2016.
Justin Hunter, wide receiver
Hunter, the Titans' second-round pick in 2013, isn't really in danger of being a cap casualty, as he carries a low $1.725 million cap number for 2016. However, after two subpar seasons, if Hunter wants to earn another contract, especially a large one, he'll needs to step up his production.
He and the Titans seem confident his July arrest won't keep him from the field. A big season from Hunter would go a long way towards ensuring he remains in Tennessee long-term. Last year, Hunter caught 28 passes for 498 yards and three touchdowns before suffering a spleen injury that sidelined him the last four games of the year. He'll need to do better in 2015 to secure his future.
*All salary cap information courtesy of OverTheCap.com.
