Title: Tennessee Titans Downgrade Peter Skoronski to Out for Week 2 Matchup Against Los Angeles Chargers
Introduction
The Tennessee Titans have made a significant lineup change ahead of their Week 2 game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Starting left guard Peter Skoronski has been downgraded to out due to an illness. This article will discuss the impact of Skoronski’s absence, potential replacements, and other injury updates for the Titans.
Skoronski’s Absence and Impact
Peter Skoronski, the Titans’ starting left guard, missed Friday’s practice due to an illness. Initially listed as questionable, Skoronski’s condition worsened, leading to his downgrade to out for Sunday’s game. Skoronski showcased his talent in the season-opening loss to the New Orleans Saints, boasting an impressive 92% pass block win rate, the second-best on the Titans’ offensive line.
Skoronski, a first-round pick in this year’s NFL draft, was immediately inserted into the starting lineup at left guard. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the Titans, as they look to protect their quarterback and establish a strong running game against the Chargers.
Potential Replacements
In Skoronski’s absence, the Titans have a couple of options to fill the left guard position. Second-year offensive lineman Xavier Newman and 2021 second-round pick Dillon Radunz are likely candidates for the role. If Radunz gets the nod, it will mark his first game action since tearing his ACL in December.
Radunz expressed his excitement about the opportunity, stating that it is a culmination of hard work and trust in the trainers and coaching staff. Despite his injury history, Radunz feels confident in his knee’s condition and is eager to contribute to the team’s success.
Additional Injury Updates
Aside from Skoronski’s absence, the Titans have a few other injury concerns heading into the game against the Chargers. Star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is listed as questionable due to an ankle injury. Hopkins has missed three practices but remains hopeful that he will be able to play. He has prepared throughout the week as if he will be on the field, demonstrating his determination to contribute to the team’s offensive firepower.
The Titans have also made use of standard elevations from the practice squad to bolster their roster depth. Cornerback Eric Garror and defensive lineman Kyle Peko have been elevated to provide additional support in their respective positions.
Conclusion
The Tennessee Titans’ decision to downgrade Peter Skoronski to out for their Week 2 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers is a significant blow to their offensive line. Skoronski’s impressive performance in the season opener highlighted his importance to the team’s pass protection. However, the Titans have viable options in Xavier Newman and Dillon Radunz to step up and fill the void left by Skoronski’s absence.
In addition to Skoronski, the Titans are closely monitoring DeAndre Hopkins’ ankle injury. Hopkins remains optimistic about his availability for Sunday’s game and has prepared accordingly. The team has also utilized elevations from the practice squad to strengthen their cornerback and defensive line positions.
As the Titans face the Chargers, they will need their replacements to step up and deliver a solid performance. The outcome of this game will undoubtedly have implications for both teams’ early-season standings and set the tone for the weeks ahead.
