Jason Burgos
With starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill expected to be sidelined again next week, an NFL insider believes the Tennessee Titans will make a surprise move to their rookie QB in Week 8.
The Tennessee Titans are in a perilous position heading into their next game. After a solid 2-2 start to the season, the 22nd-ranked group in our latest NFL offense rankings has hurt more than helped their team in recent weeks. And now they will look to avoid a three-game losing skid when they return to action in NFL Week 8.
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When they do take to the field against the Atlanta Falcons on Oct. 29, they are expected to do so without Tannehill after he suffered a high ankle sprain in the team’s Week 6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. In that game, 2022 rookie Malik Willis relieved his injured teammate and was decent in his limited action.
Strong chance Tennessee Titans start rookie Will Levis in Week 8
Since Willis entered as a replacement last week and has been the QB2 on the depth chart all season the assumption was that he would likely get the start against the Falcons. Especially with Tannehill in a walking boot during practice this week. However, on Sunday the NFL Network insiders revealed that may no longer be the case.
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“While Tannehill hasn’t been ruled out for the Titans’ Oct. 29 game against the Falcons, it’s unlikely that he will be able to play,” NFL Network reported. “Sources say the Titans, who practiced several times this week despite their bye week, are preparing Will Levis and Malik Willis to start if Tannehill is unable to play Week 8.
- Will Levis stats (College): 5,876 yards, 46 TD, 25 INT, 145.6 passer rating
“Willis struggled in three starts last season and in relief of Tannehill last week — which could increase the chances they opt to go with Levis, the No. 33 overall pick in April’s draft.”
The rookie signal-caller from Kentucky built momentum before this year’s draft and there was talk he might be taken in the first round. However, he fell to the Tennessee Titans at the top pick in the second round. In a summer battle against Willis, he was unable to win the QB2 spot on the depth chart. However, Willis’ continued mediocre play could thrust Levis into a massive opportunity next weekend.
