NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Titans have decided to place running back Tyjae Spears on the injured reserve list.
Spears suffered a sprained ankle during the first preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 9. The injury occurred just before halftime, when Spears caught a pass for a 13-yard gain. He had to be taken off the field on a cart and was later seen with a walking boot on his right foot.
This decision means Spears will miss at least the first four games of the season.
Coach Brian Callahan was looking for a more balanced ground attack this season, with Spears and Tony Pollard sharing responsibilities. Last season, Pollard had 260 carries, significantly outpacing Spears’ 84.
Spears missed five games last season due to two concussions, a sprained ankle, and a hamstring injury. He was expected to contribute in both the running and passing game but was limited to 114 touches.
In his rookie season in 2023, Spears participated in all 17 games, playing alongside Derrick Henry. He ran for 453 yards and two touchdowns, in addition to catching 52 passes for 385 yards and one touchdown.
With Spears on the injury reserve list, the Titans will likely rely on veteran running back Julius Chestnut and rookie Kalel Mullings to back up Pollard. Tennessee has the first claim on the waiver list, so there’s a chance they’ll add more players to their running back group.
