The Tennessee Titans have set their initial 53-man roster ahead of the Tuesday deadline. 

Several players' time with the Titans will end, while others will stick around on the practice squad. Among those who made the initial roster are two Nashville-area natives Colton Dowell and Matthew Jackson.

Dowell and Jackson both impressed this summer and will now get to represent their hometown team.

Dowell was a star receiver for Wilson Central High School in Lebanon. As a senior at Wilson Central, Dowell collected 44 catches for 799 yards. The receiver was lightly recruited out of high school, receiving offers from Chattanooga and UT Martin. 

Dowell committed to UT Martin and ended his tenure as a Skyhawk with the most receiving yards in school history.

Jackson attended Hillsboro High School in Nashville where he starred on the defense. Jackson played college ball at Eastern Kentucky and was a two-time ASUN All-Conference selection. Over five seasons at Eastern Kentucky, Jackson recorded 294 tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss, eight sacks, and two interceptions. 

During the 2023 preseason, Dowell collected three catches for 55 yards. The receiver missed some time with injury but made the most of his snaps. 

Jackson, meanwhile, had four tackles and performed admirably as a gunner on special teams. 

Jackson didn't get drafted but immediately impressed the Titans' staff this summer. Dowell was a seventh-round selection, far from a lock to make the team. Jackson figures to backup Kevin Byard at safety and Dowell will likely see most of his snaps on special teams initially. 

Regardless of the role they play, it's always cool to see local talent represented on the big stage. 

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Featured image via © Christopher Hanewinc | 2023 Aug 25