Titans vs. Chargers: Reasons for optimism and concern for Tennessee
By Ravi Konjeti
Optimism: Possible debut of Jeffery Simmons
The Titans struggled to get pressure on the quarterback last week, sacking Joe Flacco only once. Cameron Wake missed the Broncos game and it was clear that his presence was missed. The Titans front seven was also quite leaky against the run, giving up a total of 103 rushing yards.
However, one bit of news might provide a bright outlook: rookie defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons has returned to practice and could play in Week 7.
The bright side is that when healthy, Simmons was a top five prospect coming into the draft. Simmons has the upside to match the production of past NFL greats, but he needs to get healthy first. Even if Simmons does play this week, it will likely take a few weeks before he is fully game ready and earns the trust of Mike Vrabel and Dean Pees to see significant snaps.
At this point, the Titans need to take a realistic look at their chances of making the playoffs. If the Titans lose this game, then the playoffs will become an extreme long shot with games against the Chiefs, Panthers, and Saints remaining on the schedule, as well as division games against the Texans and the Colts.
The Titans will need to examine key young pieces this season to see who to keep and who to move on from. If Simmons can realize his potential, then the Titans can focus on the offensive side of the ball even more this offseason.