AFC.(players, teams, and coaches of the American Football Conference's Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans)(Brief Article)

Seattle

GOING HOME: Chris Gray's move to left guard is not simply a stop-gap measure after the loss of Pete Kendall. Gray was signed in 1998 to play guard, his natural position, but started at center because of other players' injuries. At guard, Gray can better use his ability to pull and his strength at the point of attack.... When WR Jerry Rice was brought in for a visit recently, coach Mike Holmgren was thinking almost as much about what Rice could do off the field as on. Having him work with the young wideouts would pay dividends long after the year or two that Rice has left. Rice is not likely to be available until June 1, the day before he is due a $1 million roster bonus by the 49ers.

OFFENSIVE TACKLES ANALYSIS: No position on the offense is more solid. The club used two first-round picks to select LT Walter Jones (1997) and RT Chris McIntosh (2000). Always strong in pass protection, where he uses his long arms and quick feet, Jones has improved his run blocking to the point where the Seahawks are now predominantly lefthanded. He is explosive and can move the pile. If he had a nasty streak, he would be even better. McIntosh was one of the few Seahawks success stones last year. He displayed mental toughness, cracking the lineup by Week 7, and a fine knowledge of the game. McIntosh moves well, especially for a player his size (6-6, 315). He still needs to increase his upper body strength and improve his consistency. The backups are Todd Weiner, who must improve his strength and aggressiveness, and Chad Overhauser, who needs experience. --Clare Farnsworth

Tennessee

THE SWITCH: With the addition of DE Kevin ...