LeShaun Sims
The Titans’ defense was dealt a huge blow this week when cornerback Malcolm Butler was placed on injured reserve after suffering a broken wrist in Week 9. Carolina Panthers wide receiver Curtis Samuel came down on Butler’s arm during a touchdown catch at the end of the first half, which was the first TD Butler had allowed all season.
It’s going to be nearly impossible for anyone to fill Butler’s shoes, as the corner was having a great season until that point. Fellow corner LeShaun Sims will now be tasked with filling the void the rest of the way.
Sims filled in for cornerback Adoree’ Jackson in Week 8 and was subsequently burned over and over again by Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans, who finished with 198 receiving yards and two scores in the game.
Sims doesn’t have to be perfect, but he can’t be a liability, either — and that’s especially true against a high-powered Chiefs passing attack that is loaded with weapons at wide receiver.