Titans: Three defensive breakout candidates that could make the biggest jump from 2023 to 2024

NASHVILLE - As we look ahead to the 2024 season, every NFL fanbase is hoping that the league's next breakout star is currently sitting somewhere on their teams roster.

We see it every year. A handful of players come out of nowhere, put it all together, become a household name, and rise to NFL stardom all in one season. In 2023 it was players like RB Kyren Williams, WR Nico Collins, DT Justin Madubike, and S Geno Stone. So who is up next in 2024? And could the Tennessee Titans have one of these breakout candidates sitting on their roster?

Here's a look at three Titans players on the defensive side of the ball that could make a big jump in performance from 2023 to 2024.

1. Roger McCreary

Just like Geno Stone did with the Ravens last year, perhaps Roger McCreary is another defensive back who will have a big season under the tutelage of Dennard Wilson. Wilson, who was named the Titans' new defensive coordinator this offseason, is known primarily for his work with DBs.

It will also be helpful for McCreary to have veterans L'Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie sharing the secondary with him. Last season, McCreary's supporting cast was far less than stellar and the young cornerback still turned in a productive year.

Heading into 2024, McCreary is being hyped nationally as a name to watch in the Titans defense. For good reason, too. More can be found here.

Related: Titans CB Roger McCreary gets national recognition as 2024 breakout candidate

2. Jack Gibbens

Inside linebacker is one of the positions on the Titans' roster that remains wide open heading into training camp, and as things currently sit, former UDFA Jack Gibbens could be well-positioned to earn a starting role.

Gibbens has shown a lot of improvement over this offseason and impressed Tennessee's new coaching staff with his leadership. That could not only lead to Gibbens being a key contributor and communicator on the Titans' defense, but also elevate his game to a level that will turn heads nationally.

Titans fans would be wise not to sleep on Gibbens. More about his impressive offseason and 2024 role can be found here.

Related: One Titans player who could steal the show and an important job this upcoming season

3. Kenneth Murray

Like Gibbens, Kenneth Murray is in pursuit of a starting role at inside linebacker in the Titans defense. But considering the two-year, $15.5 million contract Tennessee gave Murray in free agency, the former first-round draft pick probably has an inside track to the job.

The case for Murray to have a breakout season is more about the system he will be playing in. New defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson sounds like he has a few tricks up his sleeve that will finally help Murray reach his NFL ceiling.

More information on the Titans defensive style and why it will help Murray have a breakout season can be found here.

Related: Dennard Wilson’s defensive style provides opportunity for Titans player to reach full potential