Titans Face Patriots Without Key Players Ridley and Key on Sunday
The Tennessee Titans will face the New England Patriots in Week 7 without key starters Calvin Ridley and Arden Key. Interim head coach Mike McCoy confirmed their absence, which poses a challenge for the team.
Key Player Updates
Calvin Ridley, who has been hindered by a hamstring injury, was limited to just six snaps in the previous game against the Las Vegas Raiders. He did not participate in practice all week, contributing to his ruling out for this weekend’s matchup. Over six games this season, Ridley has recorded 16 receptions totaling 290 yards.
- Calvin Ridley – Injured: Hamstring, Out for Patriots game.
- Arden Key – Injured: Quad, Out for Patriots game.
Replacement Players
Veteran receiver Van Jefferson is expected to step into a starting role against the Patriots. In Ridley’s absence, he played 44 snaps against the Raiders, catching four passes for 75 yards.
Meanwhile, Key’s injury from the Arizona Cardinals game has kept him sidelined since. The Titans’ defense managed without him last week, utilizing rookie Oluwafemi Oladejo along with veterans Jihad Ward and Dre’Mont Jones.
Defensive Challenges
Oluwafemi Oladejo is now on injured reserve due to a leg injury sustained against the Raiders. To fill this gap, the Titans have promoted Ali Gaye from the practice squad to the main roster. The linebacker rotation will now include Ward, Gaye, and second-year player Jaylen Harrell.
Additional Injury Concerns
In addition to Ridley and Key, special teams ace Bryce Oliver and reserve offensive lineman Blake Hance have also been ruled out for the game against New England. Furthermore, Dre’Mont Jones missed practice on Thursday due to a knee injury and has been marked as questionable for the Sunday outing.
This matchup against the Patriots will test the Titans’ depth as they navigate significant injuries to critical players. The team is preparing to maximize their remaining talent to secure a much-needed victory.
