Titans Defensive Backfield Faces Challenges After Injuries

The Tennessee Titans have encountered significant challenges in their defensive backfield following injuries sustained against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 15. Safeties Mike Brown, Kevin Winston Jr., and Xavier Woods all suffered injuries that forced them to exit early, leading to their placement on season-ending IR.

In response, the Titans signed Erick Hallett from the Detroit Lions practice squad and Sanoussi Kane from the Baltimore Ravens practice squad. Head coach Dennard Wilson is hopeful that Hallett and Kane will not see defensive snaps against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 16.

Analyzing the current lineup, Darrell Baker Jr. will continue as the Titans' No. 1 cornerback, stepping into that role since Jalyn Armour-Davis suffered an Achilles injury. There is no indication that Armour-Davis is ready to return.

Opposite Baker Jr. is cornerback Kaiir Elam, who was elevated to the starting position following Woods' injury. Elam previously struggled as a first-round pick with the Buffalo Bills but played 24 snaps outside after the injury.

The nickel position will likely be occupied by rookie Marcus Harris, who returns to that role after initially shifting outside due to injuries. Safety Amani Hooker, viewed as the best defensive backfield player, will remain at safety following a brief stint at nickel.

Kendell Brooks is expected to fill the other safety spot as the Titans prepare to face the Chiefs.