The Tennessee Titans, led by linebacker Derrick Henry, have been witnessing a lackluster season this year. All other teams in the AFC South have seven or more wins, but the Titans are struggling in the last spot of the division with a poor 4-8 record until Week 13.
Besides the Titans’ struggle as a teen, Henry went through individual struggle due to the diminishing importance of the RBs in the league and has been very vocal about this. However, the team didn’t decide to part ways with the veteran. The RB faced another significant setback following his recent injury, although head coach Mike Vrabel shared a promising update on his state.
Mike Vrabel issues positive update on Derrick Henry
Adam Schefter initially reported Derrick Henry’s placement in the concussion protocol. However, conflicting statements emerged as Vrabel shared divergent views regarding Henry’s health. Despite being declared unfit to return on Sunday, the HC reassured by stating the RB exhibited no symptoms after engaging in a workout session on Monday.
Vrabel said the team remained vigilant, monitoring Henry’s condition closely for any potential symptoms.
“So, he’s not in the protocol as of now. But we will monitor how he’s feeling and any symptoms that may come up just like we would do with any player. So again, as of now he’s doing great, and that’s great news for any player”, he said via the Tennessee Titans.
#Titans coach Mike Vrabel clarifies that RB Derrick Henry is not in the concussion protocol. That puts him on track to play this week.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 4, 2023
Meanwhile, the unfortunate news continued for the Titans as punter Ryan Stonehouse sustained a season-ending blow with a knee injury. Scheduled for surgery, the footballer will be out for the remainder of the season. The GC expressed his disappointment, emphasizing the team’s reluctance to lose players due to injuries while wishing for his swift recovery.
Besides Ryan, defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons sustained a knee injury during Sunday’s game. Vrabel provided insights into the DT’s condition and predicted his absence for “a couple of weeks.”
What happened to Derrick Henry in Week 13?
Derrick Henry suffered a concerning head injury during the fourth quarter of the match against the Indianapolis Colts. He made an impactful nine-yard run, igniting a Titans touchdown drive, before abruptly leaving the field to head to the locker room for medical evaluation. Despite his initial assessment in the medical tent, team trainers and independent doctors ruled him unfit to return for the remainder of the game.
This is the play Derrick Henry got Concussed on, which is putting his availability in question vs the #Dolphins Monday Night. Hard hit. pic.twitter.com/yJwwHCokFF
— Bobby Shouse (@B_Shousejr) December 4, 2023
The Alabama Crimson Tide alum showcased his dominance in the game, tallying 21 carries for 102 yards and two touchdowns. The team’s dynamic was significantly impacted by his absence after a crucial first-down run in the early fourth quarter. Rookie Tyjae Spears stepped in to fill the void created by his departure.
With back-to-back seasons of leading the NFL in rushing yards in 2019 and 2020, and currently holding the second spot behind Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers this season, the LB’s impact has been truly remarkable. With an impressive 841 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on 197 carries this season, his consistent performance has greatly contributed to the team’s success. With a track record of consistently handling a workload of at least 300 carries in three out of the last four seasons, the veteran has further solidified his status as an elite RB.
