Quarterback Ryan Tannehill's fitness ahead of the Tennessee Titans' week eight game against the Atlanta Falcons is in doubt.
The Titans last played two weeks ago in London, and Tannehill exited that game in the late stages with an ankle injury. Tannehill missed both practice sessions on Wednesday and Thursday but offered an update on his fitness. Tannehill said, "Everything's feeling better. It’s been a process to get where we are right now, but we’re trending in the right direction, and everything feels a lot better than it did a week ago."
Head coach Mike Vrabel also provided his opinion on the situation. Vrabel said, "We will see where he is at the end of the week."
If Tannehill cannot suit up and start, Vrabel confirmed his plan for the quarterback position. He said, "I'd imagine if Ryan can't play, I would anticipate both of those quarterbacks playing in the football game."
Those quarterbacks are rookie Will Levis and second-year player Malik Willis. Willis replaced Tannehill in London, reiterating that he expects to play this week.
"(Coach told me) to be ready to go, to prepare as the starter," Willis said. "(The process) is the same as usual – just go to practice, try to get better, try to understand the gameplan as if you're starting."
Rookie Levis is also preparing as if he will get the start. Speaking to the Tennessee media, Levis said, "I'm just treating it like any other week. Vrabel preaches that we prepare as starters every week, regardless of what position or opportunity we have. If my name gets called, I'll be ready to go."
The Titans are 2-4 and desperately need a win. All focus will be on which young quarterback replaces Tannehill this Sunday.