Vrabel Says Titans Changed Practice Schedule To Try To Prevent Injuries

It was a topic of discussion during the offseason that the Tennessee Titans' physical style and practice habits might have contributed to some of the team's injuries over the last two seasons. They are looking to change that in 2023 with a new practice routine.

NASHVILLE — Throughout the past two seasons, the Tennessee Titans have endured more than their fair share of significant injuries, including last season when  quarterback Ryan Tannehill, left tackle Taylor Lewan, and defensive back Kristian Fulton all missed significant time.

Titans coach Mike Vrabel brought a physical, tough mentality to this team when he was hired six years ago. He took some heat during the offseason, specifically from people who suggested his handling of practices and the physical nature with which this team goes about their business might be a contributing factor, specifically with some of the soft tissue injuries players like Fulton repeatedly suffered.    

On Wednesday, Vrabel, while speaking during his post-practice press conference, was once again asked about any changes that he and his coaching staff might have made to try to cut down on such injuries.  

“Last year, we tried to do that. And we’ve always tried to go two on and try to pull back on that third day where maybe historically, or some of the data would tell you, the volume’s getting too high, and we started out in a jog through last year. And then, looking at the data, it was hard to keep the receivers from running a certain mile per hour. So, we’ve just adjusted those to being walkthroughs.

“We’re still going to work, we’re still going to practice, we’re going to still hold up to our standards of what we feel like is important. But we’re going to try to continue with our installation on that third day, but still come out here in the morning or at 10 (a.m.) and walk through the installation. We can’t just take a day off. We have to continue with the installation and ensure that we’re progressing into third down and red zone or two-minute. But that’ll be a little different in that regard. Just the volume on that third day.”

While these changes likely won’t hurt, there won’t be any significant answer to the injury concerns until the season begins and players are under the strain of actual game conditions where their physical exertion is maximum.  

Still, it’s an attempt to curtail some of the soft tissue issues, while other injuries are beyond anyone’s control because of the physical nature of this game. 

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