Titans Exercise Caution with L’Jarius Sneed in Season Opener
The Tennessee Titans kicked off their season with a tough loss against the Denver Broncos, but the spotlight was not solely on the game’s outcome. All eyes were on the much-anticipated return of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed. After signing a lucrative four-year, $76 million contract last offseason, Sneed’s journey back to the field has been a long one, marked by injury and rehabilitation.
Injury History and Recovery
Sneed had a challenging 2024 season, playing only five games before succumbing to a season-ending quad injury. His recovery process extended through the offseason, culminating in a touch-up surgery on his knee earlier this spring. Although he missed a significant portion of training camp, Sneed rejoined his teammates in practice just weeks before the season opener.
On Sunday, the fans were eager to see how he would perform after nearly a year away from competitive football. However, expectations were tempered as Sneed played just 21 snaps throughout the game, a decision made with careful consideration by the Titans’ staff.
Organizational Decision on Playing Time
Defensive Coordinator Dennard Wilson addressed Sneed’s limited playing time, clarifying that the pitch count was a strategic choice rooted in player safety. “That was an organizational decision,” Wilson stated. “Sometimes with players, you’ve got to protect them first. He went out there and had a certain amount of plays, which the organization said was how much he’s going to play.”
Wilson emphasized the importance of managing Sneed’s return, particularly in light of the risks associated with soft tissue injuries. “You don’t want that to happen from a soft tissue standpoint,” he added, indicating that the coaching staff is taking a cautious approach to ensure Sneed’s long-term health.
Impact Despite Limited Snaps
Despite the limited playing time, Sneed made his presence felt on the field. In those 21 snaps, he displayed impressive performance metrics, breaking up the only pass thrown his way and wrapping up three tackles. His efforts earned him the third-highest defensive grade on the team from Pro Football Focus, with a score of 82.4, signaling that he was effective when utilized.
Wilson noted Sneed’s impactful plays: “In those 18-20 plays, he played his tail off. He was effective… you see the violence.” The coach highlighted a notable pass breakup on the sideline, which showcased Sneed’s quickness and positioning.
Defensive Outlook for the Titans
The Titans’ defense, which struggled last season by allowing an average of 27.1 points per game, appeared reinvigorated in Week 1. Even in Sneed’s absence, the unit showed signs of improvement. As Sneed continues to recover and increase his playtime, the potential for the Titans’ defense to become a formidable force in the league is promising.
As the Titans navigate this season, the cautious reintegration of L’Jarius Sneed may prove pivotal in their quest for success, both in terms of individual performance and overall defensive strength. With the season still in its infancy, fans are hopeful that a fully healthy Sneed can contribute significantly as the Titans strive to rebound from their opening loss.
