No one could say the Tennessee Titans were mailing it in. Although they had lost three of their last four headed into Sunday’s game at Houston, all three defeats were in games that went down to the end of regulation or beyond and the victory was a come-from-behind affair in the closing minutes at Miami. The 26-3 loss, which dropped them to 5-11 and left them four games behind their division foes, looked like something completely different. … This Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Nissan Stadium will conclude the 2023 season — and will provide the Titans with one more opportunity to win a division game. Thus far, they are 0-5 against AFC South opponents. Since realignment in 2002, Tennessee never has failed to win at least one division game. … The effect of mounting defeats and continuing personnel issues showed Monday when coach Mike Vrabel let loose with a bit of profanity during a press conference. He apologized two days later, but his choice of words spoke volumes about the current emotional state of the man in charge. … The rumor mill continues to spin with speculation that Vrabel and general manager Ran Carthon do not have a strong working relationship. Recent reports suggest that Vrabel, who is under contract beyond this season, could force his way out and try to find a more comfortable opportunity for the future. Vrabel was asked about the reports this week and expressed his desire to keep the job he has had for nearly six years now. … Despite the offense’s deficiencies, particularly on the line, running back Derrick Henry has topped 1,000 rushing yards for the fifth time in six years, and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins topped 1,000 receiving yards in his first year with the team. Both achievements are notable in their ways. … There is no question that Will Levis is Tennessee’s quarterback of the future. For the second time in recent weeks, though, his status for the next game is in doubt because of an injury. Once again, there is no indication that coaches want to see what second-year quarterback Malik Willis can do or to showcase the 2022 third-round pick for a potential offseason trade.
Going Out With a Whimper
With their 26-3 loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday, the Tennessee Titans looked like a team that is ready for the offseason. With last place in the AFC South, it is guaranteed to be a long offseason for a franchise that won back-to-back division titles in 2020 and 2021, and if national reports are accurate, it could be a dramatic one as well.