Tennessee Titans’ Cedric Gray Enters Concussion Protocol After UTV Accident

The Tennessee Titans received concerning news about their linebacker, Cedric Gray. On Monday, the team announced he has entered the NFL’s concussion protocol after a UTV accident over the weekend. The team’s statement mentioned, “Cedric Gray was involved in a UTV accident in Tennessee and sustained a concussion and minor injuries. We look forward to Cedric returning to the field soon and in full health when he clears the NFL’s concussion protocol.”

The Titans begin their season on Sunday against the New York Jets, formerly coached by Robert Saleh. Gray’s entry into concussion protocol makes it improbable he will play in Week 1. The protocol requires players to complete several phases of the NFL’s return-to-play program before clearance.

Monitoring Gray’s status in the upcoming days is crucial. Gray, a fourth-round pick in 2024, is now entering his third season with the Titans. He is coming off a career year with 164 total tackles, fourth-most in the NFL. His record includes seven tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, four pass breakups, two fumble recoveries, and a sack in 16 games. Pro Football Focus gave him an overall grade of 78.9, ranking him seventh out of 88 qualified linebackers, and a 92.7 run defense grade, second-highest.

Gray had been performing at a Pro Bowl level last season and was anticipated to advance further this year. The Titans will now need to adjust to start the season without him. This situation increases the pressure on veteran Cody Barton, third-year player James Williams Sr., and rookie second-round pick Anthony Hill Jr. to fill Gray’s role.