The Tennessee Titans made a quiet but strategic addition to their wide receiver group on Friday, May 8, 2026, by claiming wideout Courtney Jackson off waivers from the New York Giants. To make room on the roster, the Titans released Hal Presley, signaling ongoing competition and roster evaluation under the leadership of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Mike Borgonzi.
Background on Courtney Jackson
Courtney Jackson, a 24-year-old wide receiver out of Arkansas, joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent. He initially signed a futures contract with the New York Giants earlier this offseason but was waived by New York on Thursday, May 7. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 195 pounds, Jackson offers a blend of size and physicality that the Titans value. His college career and brief professional tenure suggest a player with special teams potential and developing route-running skills.
With offensive coordinator Brian Daboll emphasizing versatility, Jackson's ability to contribute both on offense and special teams likely drew the Titans' attention. Special teams coordinator John Fassel has historically favored players who can perform multiple roles, making Jackson's addition a conceivable fit for the Titans' scheme.
Hal Presley's Release and Context
Hal Presley was with the Titans primarily in a developmental role, spending most of the 2025 season on the practice squad before signing a futures contract this offseason. Though he showed some promise during training camp and OTAs, Presley failed to solidify a spot on Tennessee's active roster. Presley's release demonstrates the Titans' rigorous approach as they seek players who can immediately contribute or project as impactful in more than one facet of the game.
Presley's departure does not preclude a return to the Titans' practice squad if he clears waivers. However, the Titans appear ready to explore new options at wide receiver that better align with their current roster-building philosophy.
Wide Receiver Room Competition
Tennessee's wide receiver corps is a competitive group, led by veteran Calvin Ridley and slot standout Wan'Dale Robinson. Both bring dynamic playmaking ability that sets the tone for the unit. Behind them, a deep pool of talent including Elic Ayomanor, Chimere Dike, Bryce Oliver, K.J. Osborn, and Mason Kinsey continue to battle for limited roster spots.
Jackson enters into this fray facing stiff competition but carries a slight advantage due to his fresh addition and special teams skill set. The Titans have been focusing on building flexibility and athleticism throughout their roster, with multiple players able to contribute in various roles.
Front Office and Coaching Strategy
Since taking over as general manager this year, Mike Borgonzi has been active in shaping a competitive roster. Along with head coach Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, the leadership emphasizes versatility and depth, especially at skill positions like receiver.
This claim of Jackson and release of Presley are indicative of a broader trend under the new regime: no player's roster spot is guaranteed. The Titans are actively curating a group of players who not only contribute on offense but also excel on special teams and adapt to multiple roles, giving the team flexibility on game days.
Additional Team Notes: Schedule Release and Defensive Interest
In related news, the NFL is set to release the full 2026 regular season schedule next week, bringing clarity and excitement for Titans fans and the organization's planning.
Separately, the Titans continue to monitor veteran free agent cornerback Kenny Moore, recently released by the Indianapolis Colts. Moore, known for his slot coverage prowess and playmaking ability, fits well within defensive coordinator Gus Bradley's scheme that values tight coverage and versatility in the secondary. While Moore is not yet officially signed, the logical fit and team interest signal potential roster moves on defense in the coming weeks.
Final Assessment
While claiming Courtney Jackson off waivers may seem like a minor move at a glance, it's emblematic of the Tennessee Titans' detailed approach to roster building in 2026. Every addition carries the potential to improve the team, particularly on special teams and depth for the offense. This move also underscores the high level of competition players endure during the offseason, where roster spots are earned through performance, versatility, and scheme fit.
For Jackson, the immediate goal will be to impress on special teams and earn trust from the coaching staff during OTAs, minicamps, and training camp. For Presley, though waived, possibilities remain either on the practice squad or elsewhere as he continues his professional journey.
As the offseason progresses, and the 2026 schedule release approaches, the Titans' roster will take further shape. Fans should expect more such calculated moves as the coaching staff and front office continue honing a roster aimed at contention and sustained success.
The real battles for roster spots and playing time are just beginning in Tennessee.
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