Titans face Colts showdown without three key starters
The Tennessee Titans are gearing up for their Week 3 clash against the Indianapolis Colts at Nissan Stadium, but they will do so with a significantly altered lineup. Injuries have sidelined three key players, forcing the coaching staff to make critical adjustments ahead of the matchup.
Injury Report Overview
As the Titans prepare to face their division rivals, the absence of certain starters is a cause for concern. Here’s a breakdown of the players ruled out for Sunday’s game:
Kevin Zeitler out with bicep injury
Right guard Kevin Zeitler will not be in uniform after struggling with a bicep injury that limited his participation in practice this week. His absence opens the door for Blake Hance and rookie Jackson Slater to step into the starting lineup. If Slater takes the field, it will mark his first appearance in an NFL game, adding an element of intrigue to the Titans’ offensive front.
JC Latham sidelined for second week
Tackling duties will also be impacted as offensive tackle JC Latham is set to miss a second consecutive game. Latham suffered a hip injury during the season opener against the Denver Broncos and has not returned to action since. In his place, Oli Udoh and John Ojukwu will look to fortify the right tackle position against a formidable Colts defensive line.
Kevin Winston Jr. remains inactive
Defensive back Kevin Winston Jr. is another notable absence, sitting out for the third straight week due to a hamstring injury. The former Penn State standout is still awaiting his NFL debut, but the Titans are optimistic about his return, as he has not been placed on injured reserve. With Winston out, the Titans will lean on veterans Xavier Woods, Quandre Diggs, and Amani Hooker in the secondary.
Surprising scratch: James Williams Sr.
In a surprising twist, linebacker James Williams Sr. has been declared a healthy scratch after contributing in the first two games of the season. His unexpected absence leaves Cedric Gray and Cody Barton to handle the middle linebacker duties against the Colts, further reshaping the Titans’ defensive strategy.
Jarvis Brownlee Jr. in a walking boot
Cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. was seen entering the stadium in a walking boot, indicating that his return might take longer than anticipated. His status remains uncertain, adding another layer of complexity to the Titans’ defensive plans as they ready themselves for the Colts.
With key players out, the Titans will need to rally together and adjust their game plan to remain competitive against a division rival. The coaching staff will be tasked with maximizing the potential of the next men up as they approach kickoff.
