NASHVILLE – The Titans returned to the practice field on Thursday at Vanderbilt Health Football Center to continue preparations for Sunday's game vs the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Here's a look at today's developments:
-In recent weeks, the Titans have said goodbye to veterans Jeffery Simmons and Amani Hooker via trade.
As a result, there's a new longest-tenured player on defense for the Titans:
Linebacker Cedric Gray, who is in his third season.
"That sounds crazy," Gray said with a smile.
It's true. Gray was a part of the team's 2024 NFL Draft class, along with James Williams and Jaylen Harrell, but both of those players are on injured reserve.
"I think that is crazy to hear," Gray said of the seniority. "Obviously we know what Jeff and Hook meant to this team and this defense. But it just looks like we're moving in a new direction, a new era, for this team.
"So, I am just looking forward to stepping up and being a leader on this defense."
Coaches have praised Gray in recent weeks, and say he's earning more and more playing time.
With injuries to Anthony Hill Jr. and Cody Barton, the Titans need Gray more than ever.
"You still have to earn it," Gray said of leadership. "You have to earn the respect of your guys, you have to be able to command a room. And, a large part of leadership is to be able to produce as well."
-And now for all the injury updates on Thursday:
-Linebacker Cody Barton (concussion) did not practice for the second day in a row.
-Defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers (back) was a full participant once again.
-Cornerback Marcus Harris (ankle) was a full participant once again.
-Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. (neck) did not practice for the second day in a row.
-Cornerback Jaylon Jones (knee) was a full participant once again.
-Tackle JC Latham (finger) was a full participant once again.
-Running back Tony Pollard (finger/NIR-Rest) did not practice on Thursday.
-Guard Peter Skoronski (hamstring) did not practice once again.
-Running back Tyjae Spears (knee) was limited in practice.
-Receiver Carnell Tate (shoulder) did not practice for the second day in a row.
-Punter Tommy Townsend (left knee) was a full participant once again.
-Safety Kevin Winston (shoulder) was limited in practice after being a full participant on Wednesday.
-Titans coach Robert Saleh said on Wednesday he expects guard Fernando Carmona, placed on Injured Reserve on September 29, to return to practice next week.
-The Titans are scheduled to practice again on Friday, ahead of Sunday's game vs the Jaguars.
