Titan's coach Brian Callahan discloses recovery timeline for Tyjae Spears' injury
Tennessee Titans' Tyjae Spears Expected to Miss Several Weeks with High Ankle Sprain
The Tennessee Titans have suffered a setback as running back Tyjae Spears is expected to miss several weeks recovering from a high ankle sprain sustained during the preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Spears, who was carted off the field in the second quarter of the game after being tackled by Tampa Bay defensive backs Rashad Wisdom and JJ Roberts, had three carries for minus one yard before his injury.
The injury occurred late in the second quarter, and although tests confirmed no additional damage beyond the sprain, the recovery timetable suggests that Spears will miss several weeks. Head coach Brian Callahan referred to the timeline as "a few weeks," indicating Spears’ preseason is likely over but the team hopes to have him ready for the regular season opener against the Denver Broncos on September 7, 2025.
Spears had been drawing praise in training camp and was expected to play a key role in 2025 following Derrick Henry’s departure. In his first two seasons, Spears has rushed for 765 yards and six touchdowns.
The Titans' backfield depth will be tested early in Brian Callahan's second season as head coach. In Spears' absence, rookie Kalel Mullings and third-year back Julius Chestnut will see expanded roles. Chestnut added 18 yards on three attempts against Tampa Bay, while Mullings led the Titans with 33 rushing yards on seven carries.
The Titans' focus is on keeping starter Tony Pollard healthy and preparing Mullings and Chestnut to shoulder the load until Spears returns. Spears is expected to form a one-two punch with Pollard, and the team will need them both to contribute during the regular season.
A cautious approach is expected for Spears' return due to his injury history, but the Titans remain optimistic that he will return early in the regular season. Head coach Brian Callahan confirmed the diagnosis of Spears' injury and provided an initial recovery timetable, suggesting that he may return early in the regular season.
The Tennessee Titans will need other running backs to step up in the absence of Tyjae Spears as they prepare for the season opener against the Denver Broncos. The severity of Spears' injury and his conditioning may affect the exact recovery time, but the Titans are hopeful that he will be ready to contribute when the regular season begins.
The Tennessee Titans will need other running backs to step up in the absence of Tyjae Spears, who is expected to miss several weeks recuperating from a high ankle sprain, due in part to Spears' history of injuries. In Spears' absence, rookie Kalel Mullings and third-year back Julius Chestnut will see expanded roles, as the Titans focus on keeping starter Tony Pollard healthy and preparing them to shoulder the load until Spears returns, potentially forming a potent one-two punch during the regular season.
