NASHVILLE - Former Tennessee Volunteers cornerback Gabe Jeudy-Lally has been one of the biggest surprises in Tennessee Titans training camp.
The 23-year-old undrafted rookie was a fast riser in rookie minicamp and summer OTAs. That has since carried over into training camp with Jeudy-Lally being given additional opportunities due to the absences of L'Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie.
GJL has made some real improvements to his game since his time in Knoxville. After practice on Thursday, I spoke to the rookie about the physicality he has shown in Titans practice and how he has unlocked that part of his game in the NFL.
"I'll be honest, I think the transition to the NFL has made me a more physical cornerback," Jeudy-Lally told me. "I played with more savviness in college, but when you get the opportunity and your coach just lets the reigns off and tells you to go do those things, I think it was a great opportunity for me to showcase that skillset that I might not have shown before hand."
Jeudy-Lally is referring to Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson, who is looking for physical corners that can press at the line of scrimmage, get downhill to tackle against the run, and contribute on special teams. That's how Jeudy-Lally is going to earn a spot on the 53-man roster...and that's exactly what he's done.
Spoiler alert: Jeudy-Lally is on my final projected 53-man roster. Based on his comments on Thursday, I think the rookie would agree that he has done enough to make the team.
"I think that I've given myself the best opportunity to be happy with whatever happens at the end of the day. It's a business, and I can't be upset with whatever decision they make, but I do believe that the way that I've played on this football field has definitely surprised a lot of people," said the former Volunteer. "I told myself from the beginning that 'You gotta go out there and prove it every single day.' I think I've given myself the best opportunity to prove it every day."
Short memory is key for any defensive back. But it's especially critical for young DBs fighting to make a roster. Jeudy-Lally is never going to be perfect, and at this point in his career, he's going to make a lot of mistakes. The NFL is fast paced and the wide receivers are much more polished than those you saw in college. With that in mind, the rookie prides himself on being able to move on and "flush it."
Jeudy-Lally started his collegiate career at Vanderbilt where he played in 23 games over three seasons. After one season at BYU, Jeudy-Lally transferred back into the SEC and played one season for the Vols. He made 11 starts in 13 games at UT and helped the team to a 9-4 record under Josh Heupel.
Now, he might be a few short days away from cracking an NFL roster. Roster cuts are due by 3 p.m. CST on Tuesday, August 27th.
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