The Tennessee Titans are set to close out their preseason on Friday night against the New England Patriots, but how they’re going to approach the game remains up in the air.
We know we’ll see the usual suspects, meaning the players who are battling for roster spots. But as far as the starters go, including quarterback Ryan Tannehill, that remains to be seen.
When asked about Tannehill, head coach Mike Vrabel said the team had yet to make a decision on if he will play.
And he had the same response when asked about quarterback Will Levis, who was unable to suit up in preseason Week 2 due to a lower-body injury.
#Titans HC Mike Vrabel: No decision on whether QB Ryan Tannehill will play Friday night in preseason finale
— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) August 23, 2023
#Titans HC Mike Vrabel: Not sure of plan for QB Will Levis for Friday night.
— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) August 23, 2023
In what is a sign that Levis has a good chance to play, the rookie did return to practice on Wednesday, although he was still sporting a wrap on his thigh. If Levis plays, he will likely split time with fellow signal-caller, Malik Willis, assuming Tannehill doesn’t suit up.
A close up of #Titans QB Will Levis with wrap on his left leg. pic.twitter.com/6pm5h3vUQr
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) August 23, 2023
One starter who Vrabel hinted earlier in the week does have a shot to play is outside linebacker Harold Landry, who hasn’t played in a game since the 2021 playoffs after suffering a torn ACL prior to last season.
Landry said after practice on Tuesday that he will leave that decision up to Vrabel. Landry also noted he feels great and doesn’t even think about his knee anymore.
Perhaps we’ll have some clarity on Thursday, but if not news of who will and won’t play will likely trickle out early Friday before the game. Tennessee and New England will kick off at 7:15 p.m. CT.
