One of many key members, no pun meant, of the Tennessee Titans defensive position might be out there for Week 1 in spite of everything.
On Saturday, Titans edge-rusher Arden Key efficiently appealed a possible six-game ban for violating the NFL’s coverage on performance-enhancing substances. Whereas it is excellent news for Key, it is even higher for the group.
With out Key, the Titans would’ve had two decisions to fill the void left alongside the defensive position, neither splendid. Barring an settlement with one of many veterans left on the free-agent market, the best-available replacements on the roster had been doubtless fourth-year linebacker Rashad Weaver, who has 4 profession begins coming into this 12 months, and rookie seventh-rounder Jaylen Harrell.
Final season, Key made a right away influence, ending third on the group in hurries (29) and sacks (7) whereas rating fourth in pressures (40) and QB hits (4). Making up for that manufacturing so early within the season would’ve been difficult, to say the least.
Key acquired the information that he was going through a doable suspension on July 30. On the time, head coach Brian Callahan acknowledged the likelihood, telling reporters that the group would “play with who now we have.”
Now that the Titans will not have to fret about changing the 28-year-old, Tennessee can formally pencil him in because the starter reverse Harold Landry III on the sting.
Chosen within the third spherical of the 2018 NFL Draft by the then-Oakland Raiders, Key has bounced round a bit, taking part in for 4 totally different groups over a six-year profession. Nevertheless, he is seemingly discovered a house with the Titans, who he’ll start his second season with as vital piece to the group’s defensive position.
