The Jury's Still Out On Titans Caleb Farley Three Years Into His NFL Career

Caleb Farley checked all the boxes coming out of Virginia Tech, including the oft-injured one.

George Walker IV / Tennessean.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

NASHVILLE - When former Tennessee Titans general manager Jon Robinson chose to select former Virginia Tech cornerback Caleb Farley with the 22cd pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, the move was met with praise and concern. 

The pick was praised for the obvious physical gifts the 6-foot-1, 207-pound corner brought to the field. Long, lean, strong, fast, and physical were all words used to describe Farley, and his tape backed those adjectives up emphatically. 

However, the negative was concerning, and it was so concerning that other teams backed away from selecting Farley because of his history of severe injuries to his back and neck. It was a valid concern, but the Titans felt comfortable taking one based on their doctor's evaluations of his issues. 

Now, three seasons into his NFL career, Farley once again underwent a "procedure" during the offseason after being unable to remain healthy and on the field during his first two campaigns with the Titans.

Titans head coach Mike Vrabel spoke of Farley during a recent press availability.

'Their working hard. Caleb's lifting hard, he looks strong, he's healthy," said Vrabel. "Again, he had a procedure, had a back procedure, and those come along at different times."        

So what does that mean for Farley and his ability to be ready for training camp and be on the field and hopefully begin to live up to his draft position? 

That's the million-dollar question that neither Vrabel nor anyone else can answer. 

Farley might be lifting and look strong, but that doesn't ensure that he can perform the necessary functions of an NFL corner or that he can even stay healthy enough to be a factor in the Titans secondary again this season.    

If, and as was the case when he was drafted, if Farley can get healthy, remain healthy, and stay on the field, then he could become an essential part of this Titans defense. 

At the same time, his history suggests that he won't be able to do that again this season; still, he should and will have the chance to change the minds of those who doubt his ability to stay healthy.   

Though the skillset and ability are there, it's time for the Farley to follow the adage of fish or cut bait. The Titans can't afford to enter another season with a talented but injured player at a position of high value when they could keep a less-gifted talent, but one that can be counted on to be available on Sundays.

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