Tennessee Titans wide receiver Mason Kinsey has been tirelessly working for a shot at the NFL since he first joined the league in 2020.
Few players in the league come from Division III football programs, and Kinsey stands out as the only Berry College alumnus to make it to the NFL. As he often says, he isn’t supposed to be here—but here he is.
Now in his fifth year, Kinsey continues to be the player who refuses to be counted out.
Each season, he improves and adds new skills to his repertoire, keeping the door open for more opportunities. Every year, he finds a way to contribute to the Titans organization.
Kinsey’s determined journey has endeared him to the Titans fanbase, and over the years, he has become a fan favorite in Nashville while waiting for his chance. That chance might have finally arrived.
With Tennessee trading star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to the Kansas City Chiefs this week and Treylon Burks placed on Injured Reserve, Kinsey’s moment is now.
Kinsey has been promoted from the Titans’ practice squad and will be in uniform for the team’s game on Sunday against Detroit.
Unlike his previous call-ups (8 career regular season games), this time he could see action on offense. He’s also been signed to the active roster, meaning he’ll earn at least three NFL game-day checks.
“It’s the next man up mentality. That’s how this business works. When one guy goes down, or one guy leaves or gets traded, you’re looking for other guys to fill that spot,” Kinsey said in the locker room on Friday afternoon.
“I’m trying to come in and keep learning and make sure I’m versatile enough to play all three positions (X, Y, Z), try and contribute on special teams, and give myself an opportunity to be on this team.”
In my view, Kinsey had the best training camp of his NFL career with the Titans this fall.
He not only made plays from all three wide receiver spots but also developed noticeable chemistry with quarterback Mason Rudolph and excelled in kick coverage.
This versatility is key to his success. Kinsey has always been a reliable punt returner, but finding additional ways to contribute is crucial for getting opportunities like this one.
“I thought this year was my best training camp. I got to show my ability to play all three positions and gain the trust of my coaches to do that.
So if that opportunity presents itself, I’m obviously going to be super excited,” said Kinsey.
