When the Tennessee Titans get to roster cuts later this Summer, there is no guarantee that cornerback Caleb Farley makes the initial 53. The former first-round draft choice has dealt with unbelievable adversity, both on and off the field.
Farley is not taking any time on the football field for granted.
Coming into a contract season, the defensive back has only appeared in 12 total games with two starts since being drafted by Tennessee in 2021. Farley did not play at all in 2023, spending the entire year on the Physically Unable to Perform list (PUP) due to lingering back issues. Since the start of the offseason program, however, Farley has been able to participate on a daily basis so far.
"I've been feeling extremely grateful," Farley told media last week on the team's final day of mandatory minicamp. "I don't think you guys understand. I really, truly believe that I was never going to play football again. Just to be out here, running around and practicing, I'm so grateful. Glory be to Jesus Christ, my Lord, Savior and Father God."
Returning to football provides an escape for Farley from what the last calendar year has been.
Last August, the corner's father passed away tragically in a natural gas leak at their North Carolina home. That tragedy followed his mother's passing from cancer in 2018. Farley credited his teammates and, in particular, veteran Chidobe Awuzie, for helping keep his mind right through the lows.
Now, Farley's focus is on making this year's Titans team.
"If you're not one of the top two or three guys, you're going to have to contribute on (special) teams," new coach Brian Callahan said earlier in minicamp. "And (Caleb)'s a guy in that mold that if you're trying to get a hat on game day and be one of the 46 active, you've got to play a role on special teams, especially as a skill player."
Farley's path to flushing the past for a fresh, professional start is officially underway.
