Tennessee Titans fans have been clamoring to see rookie linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. The 60th overall selection appeared set to open the 2026 season as a backup in Sunday's Week 1 game versus the New York Jets. Well, an unexpected circumstance may catapult him straight into the starting lineup after all.
Titans linebacker Cedric Gray was involved in a recent UTV accident, the team recently confirmed. Gray has been placed in concussion protocol as a result. It's almost certain that he's going to miss Sunday's opener versus the Jets.
Titans head coach Robert Saleh uses three linebackers in base defense. Veteran Cody Barton and third-year pro James Williams are now the favorites to take over the primary roles. Hill is likely to replace Gray if he is ultimately sidelined.
Tennessee Titans rookie LB Anthony Hill Jr. to possibly replace an injured Cedric Gray in Week 1
"Over the weekend, Cedric Gray was involved in a UTV accident in Tennessee and sustained a concussion and minor injuries," a Titans team rep confirmed. "We look forward to Cedric returning to the field soon and in full health when he clears the NFL's concussion protocol."
Gray registered a team-high 164 tackles throughout 2025. He placed fourth in the entire NFL in that category. Gray started 16 games in 2026, but is already at risk of missing the first regular-season contest in 2026.
Hill led the Titans in tackles throughout the preseason, notching 15 takedowns. The former Texas Longhorns standout also intercepted Seattle Seahawks quarterback Jalen Milroe in the second exhibition game. Hill consistently made plays during training camp too, with fans hoping he'd replace the slower Barton in the lineup.
Instead, Gray's injury might force Barton and Hill to partner versus the Jets. The Titans will probably only rely on base defense for 15-20 percent of their defensive snaps. When in nickel or dime personnel, Saleh could prefer Barton or Williams.
The Titans are excited to field their new-look defense versus the Jets in Week 1. Losing Gray so unexpectedly represents a blow to Saleh's unit. It'll require an in-this-together effort to replace his production.
Titans fans are legitimately excited about Hill's potential. An unforeseen circumstance may thrust the rookie second-round pick immediately into the Week 1 lineup. Gray's setback is brutal, but it represents an opportunity for Hill to potentially take advantage of.
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