Titans’ Lloyd Cushenberry III Honors Cancer-Survivor Mom in Emotional Patriots Showdown
A Special Moment for the Titans
In a touching tribute, Tennessee Titans center Lloyd Cushenberry III will have a very special guest at the team’s Week 7 matchup against the New England Patriots. As part of the NFL’s Crucial Catch campaign, Cushenberry’s mother, Debbie, will be recognized during the first quarter of the game. This honor comes at a significant time, as Debbie has recently triumphed over breast cancer.
Cushenberry, now in his second season with the Titans, expressed his joy at being closer to his family from Louisiana, especially in light of his mother’s health challenges. “She’s my biggest fan, and my biggest critic, too,” he shared. “She still considers herself my first coach. She is everything to me.”
Navigating Challenges Together
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the NFL has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the importance of early detection and screening. For Cushenberry, having his mother in attendance at the game symbolizes not only her strength but also the resilience of their family. He opened up about the emotional toll that his mother’s diagnosis took on him during a challenging period in his own career.
“It rocked my world for a while,” Cushenberry recalled. While battling a torn Achilles last season, he found himself juggling his recovery with his mother’s cancer treatments. Every week, he would fly back to Louisiana on Fridays to support her, then return to Tennessee on Mondays. “I wanted to be there for her because she’s always been there for me,” he said.
Cushenberry credited both his sister and brother for their unwavering support during this difficult time. “By the grace of God, she stayed strong,” he noted. “But it was tough.”
Inspiration on the Field
As the Titans prepare for their game against the Patriots, both Cushenberry and Debbie are now in good health. His mother’s encouragement continues to motivate him as he faces the challenges on the field. “My mom always tells me to stay strong, keep pushing, go hard, and that’s what I am going to try to do on Sunday, to make her proud,” he said. “She is the strongest person I know.”
The Titans, who have struggled this season with a 1-5 record, will need Cushenberry and the entire offensive line to step up in this pivotal game. With recent changes in coaching staff and a need to regroup, the team is looking to push through adversity. Just as Debbie has fought her battle, Cushenberry hopes to inspire his teammates to rise above their current challenges.
Looking Ahead
As the Titans take the field, the bond between Lloyd Cushenberry III and his mother will serve as a powerful reminder of strength, resilience, and the love that fuels their journeys. The game against the Patriots is more than just a sport; it is a testament to family, support, and the determination to overcome life’s hurdles.
