Injuries knock out two starters

Titans linebacker Akeem Ayers (ankle contusion) and defensive end Ropati Pitoitua (broken hand) will likely miss at least a week after suffering injuries in Saturday’s preseason loss to Cincinnati.

Pitoitua is scheduled for surgery on Monday, and Titans coach Mike Munchak said Pitoitua’s effectiveness in weeks to come will depend on what the doctor finds and on the size of the cast that Pitoitua has to wear.

“Obviously it’s going to limit (what he can do), and it’s frustrating to have to play with,” Munchak said. “It’s something you can play through, just a matter of how much it limits him.”

Linebacker Patrick Bailey will likely start in place of Ayers, while Munchak said he’s uncertain of who will step in for Pitoitua.

Regarding other injuries, Munchak said center Brian Schwenke (hamstring), tight end Taylor Thompson (shoulder) and safety Daimion Stafford (hamstring) will likely be able to play in the third preseason game against Atlanta.

Those expected to miss the Atlanta game include safety Markelle Martin (hamstring), middle linebacker Colin McCarthy (hamstring), running back Quinn Johnson (hamstring), linebacker Zaviar Gooden (ankle) and wide receiver Marc Mariani (shoulder).

Wide receiver Kevin Walter (back) remains on the physically unable to perform list and is no closer to practicing.

Share on Facebook

Posted In: Team News, Training Camp

Source: Titans Insider