Well, it looks as though Titans’ quarterback Jake Locker will be ready to start against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Today, Locker was in full participation with the team in practice. This has not occurred since the veteran quarterback injured his wrist against the Cincinnati Bengals two weeks ago. Due to the injury, Locker sat out this past Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts. Backup quarterback Charlie Whitehurst picked up his fifth starting role in his eighth season in the NFL against the Colts. The results from Whitehurst had him pulled late in the 4th quarter, replaced by rookie quarterback Zach Mettenberger, as the Titans were manhandled by the Colts, 41-17.
Locker informed reports that his wrist felt fine during today’s practice and that he feels ready to lead his offense against the Browns on Sunday. Locker acknowledged the fact that he needs to step up his role after back-to-back disappointing performances prior to his injury. Locker had this to say to the Tennessean:
"“When you are not winning and things are not going the way you’d like them to go, I’ve always believed the first place you have to look is at yourself, and it is no different in this situation. Just the details, executing the details in a play can make a big difference. And making a tough throw. It is not always going to be wide open and you have to find ways to complete contested passes in this league, and we have to do a better job of that.”"
With out question, I believe the remainder of the 2014 season will determine the fate of Locker’s starting role as an NFL quarterback. Does missing last week’s game build confidence for Locker to move forward? Or, can we just expect to witness what has happened over the past three Sundays? All will be determined this coming Sunday as the Titans take on the Browns.
In other Titans’ injury news, tight end Taylor Thompson and cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson both missed practice on Wednesday. Thompson is battling a knee injury he suffered against the Bengals. Wreh-Wilson is recovering from a concussion and is working through the protocols of getting back to full health. Defensive tackle Jarrell Casey (foot injury) and defensive end Ropati Pitoitua (knee injury) were both back to full participation in practice on Wednesday. Tight end Delanie Walker was limited in practice due a shoulder injury he suffered against the Colts.