Titans may play Will Levis, Malik Willis if Ryan Tannehill out

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Titans may employ a dual-quarterback strategy against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday if starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill is unable to play, according to coach Mike Vrabel’s recent statement.

In the event that Tannehill is sidelined due to his high ankle sprain, both Malik Willis and rookie Will Levis have the potential to take snaps as the team’s quarterback.

“If Ryan is unable to participate, I expect both of these quarterbacks to see action in the upcoming game,” Vrabel remarked.

Tannehill sustained a right high ankle sprain during the Titans’ loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 6. This injury is similar to the ankle sprain he experienced last season, which caused him to miss two games. The recurrence of the injury necessitated surgery and resulted in Tannehill being placed on injured reserve, prematurely concluding his season.

Vrabel mentioned that Tannehill is no longer dependent on crutches, but he won’t be participating in Tennessee’s practice sessions following the bye week. The team intends to assess Tannehill’s progress and make a determination at the end of the week.

During the bye week, Tannehill focused on resting, while Willis and Levis engaged in throwing sessions at the facility together with wide receiver Treylon Burks. Burks, who missed the last three games due to a knee injury, is expected to practice this week.

When Tannehill is unable to practice, the two young quarterbacks will share reps during training sessions. The Titans traded up in the third round of the 2022 draft to acquire Willis. They further bolstered their quarterback options by trading up to the No. 33 overall pick this year to select Levis.

“I have confidence in both of them, and I’m sure they’re eager to demonstrate their abilities, gain practice experience, play in a live game, and prepare for victory,” remarked running back Derrick Henry in reference to Willis and Levis.

On Monday, the Titans made a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, trading safety Kevin Byard for a fifth and sixth-round pick in next year’s draft along with veteran safety Terrell Edmunds. On Tuesday, Vrabel fielded inquiries about the decision to trade one of the team’s captains, and he further addressed the possibility of trading other players.

“[General manager] Ran [Carthon] and I are constantly searching for opportunities to strengthen our roster,” Vrabel explained. “We are open to exploring potential trades, but there is no immediate action anticipated.”

Henry is considered as one of the remaining Titans players with significant trade value.

“Until I receive instructions to the contrary, my focus is on winning and defeating the Falcons,” affirmed Henry. “I am present and prepared for practice.”