Darius

Reynaud

The return man went unsigned after being amongst the Giants’ final cuts in September. After averaging just 5.7 yards on 23 punt returns and 18.4 yards on 21 kick returns in 2010, Reynaud will be facing an uphill battle to earn a roster spot in Titans camp.

Projected returner Marc Mariani broke his leg and is out for the season. That leaves Reynaud as the No. 4 running back and first option on both kickoff and punt returns. He managed just 5.7 yards per punt return and 18.4 yards per kick return back in 2010 with the Giants.

Mariani sustained a compound fracture in his left leg during the preseason last year. He’s not 100 percent yet, but appears to be getting close. Mariani holds a career average of 24.8 yards per kickoff return and 11.2 yards per punt return. Darius Reynaud averaged 23.4 yards on kickoff returns and 13.2 yards on punt returns last season, and has since been re-signed to a one-year contract.

Filling in for an injured Marc Mariani last season, Reynaud was one of the top returners in the league. Reynaud averaged 13.2 yards on punts, and 23.4 yards on kicks. Mariani’s fate is unclear as he recovers from a severe leg break.

Reynaud is one the Titans’ biggest priorities this offseason. Despite being limited to special teams, he shouldn’t struggle to attract offers if he’s allowed to hit the open market. NFL Network reported last week that the Browns could have interest in Reynaud as a replacement for Josh Cribbs.

Mariani suffered a compound leg fracture last preseason, and it left some wondering if the 2010 Pro Bowler’s career was over. He’s now nearing 100 percent, while coming off an “amazing” spring. Reynaud returned two punts and one kickoff to the house last season, and he was re-signed to a one-year deal.

The veteran return man was released by the Titans in October. His addition is a sign that KR Josh Cribbs (shoulder) will be inactive for Week 14. Reynaud won’t have a role on offense.

Reynaud appeared in nine games between the Titans and Jets last season, notching one carry. He’d provide return depth for a team that parted ways with Devin Hester.

Jaymar Johnson returned punts while Reynaud was out. Expect Reynaud to step right back in resume his job this week against the Ravens.

The Vikings kept six receivers, but Reynaud’s ability to play special teams weighed heavily into that. He returned a punt 81 yards for a touchdown in the preseason finale. Neither Reynaud or Johnson figure to have much of an impact catching the ball this season.