Tennessee Titans face injury setbacks before pivotal Jaguars matchup
As the Tennessee Titans gear up for their crucial Week 13 clash against the Jacksonville Jaguars, anticipation fills the air at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. However, the excitement is tempered by a series of injuries that will keep key players on the sidelines. Here’s a closer look at the Titans’ inactives for this important divisional duel.
Injuries Impacting Defensive Depth
Cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis has been ruled out due to an Achilles injury sustained during practice following the team’s previous game against the Seattle Seahawks. Although Armour-Davis managed limited participation on Wednesday, he was unable to practice in the sessions that followed. In his absence, the Titans will look to newcomer Kaiir Elam to step up and fortify their secondary against the Jaguars.
Another significant loss for the defense comes in the form of defensive tackle Shy Tuttle, who has been in the league’s concussion protocol all week. This has prevented him from participating in practice, raising concerns over the team’s interior defensive line. With Tuttle sidelined, the Titans will rely heavily on Jeffery Simmons and T’Vondre Sweat to shoulder additional responsibilities.
Offensive Line Adjustments
The Titans will also be without center Lloyd Cushenberry III, who is nursing a foot injury that has kept him from practicing throughout the week. Corey Levin is set to take over the starting role at center, providing stability for the offensive line. Thankfully for the Titans, offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. is expected to play after being listed as questionable due to a knee injury. Moore will join Levin, along with Peter Skoronski, Kevin Zeitler, and JC Latham in what will be a critical test for the offensive unit.
Secondary and Receiver Changes
In the secondary, defensive back Kendell Brooks is also in concussion protocol. He missed Wednesday’s practice but returned briefly on Thursday, only to sit out again on Friday. Brooks has contributed six tackles across six games this season, making his absence felt as the Titans prepare for the Jaguars.
At receiver, Mason Kinsey will not be active as rookie Elic Ayomanor returns from a hamstring injury. Ayomanor’s comeback adds depth to the receiving corps, alongside fellow rookie Xavier Restrepo, who made a notable impression with two catches in his NFL debut against the Seahawks. As the Titans look to find their rhythm, quarterback Cam Ward will have Ayomanor, Restrepo, Chimere Dike, and veteran Van Jefferson at his disposal.
Rookies on the Sideline
Additionally, defensive back Jerrick Reed, who made his Titans debut last week, will be a healthy scratch against Jacksonville. Offensive lineman Drew Moss will also remain on the sidelines as he has yet to see game action since being claimed off waivers from the San Francisco 49ers a month ago.
As the Titans prepare for this pivotal matchup, the effects of these injuries will certainly be under scrutiny. With the stakes high and the Jaguars presenting a formidable challenge, the Titans will need to dig deep and rely on their remaining talent to secure a much-needed victory.
