Titans’ Ridley and Key Out for Week 7 Clash Against Patriots

The Tennessee Titans will face the New England Patriots in Week 7 without key players Calvin Ridley and Arden Key, both of whom have been ruled out due to injuries. Interim head coach Mike McCoy confirmed their absence ahead of the match scheduled for October 15, 2023.

Calvin Ridley suffered a hamstring injury during the Titans’ previous game against the Las Vegas Raiders. This injury limited him to just six snaps and prevented him from participating in any practice sessions throughout the week. Ridley has recorded 16 receptions for 290 yards in the first six games of the season. In his absence, veteran receiver Van Jefferson is expected to step up, having played 44 snaps and caught four passes for 75 yards against the Raiders.

Meanwhile, Arden Key will also miss the game due to a quad injury sustained during the second half of the Titans’ matchup against the Arizona Cardinals two weeks ago. He was unable to play against the Raiders and has not practiced since. The outside linebacker position has been filled by rookie Oluwafemi Oladejo, along with veterans Jihad Ward and Dre’Mont Jones, who handled the majority of snaps in Key’s absence.

The Titans will also be without Oladejo, who was placed on injured reserve following a leg injury sustained late in the game against the Raiders. To address this depth issue, Tennessee signed practice squad outside linebacker Ali Gaye to the active roster. The Titans’ outside linebacker rotation is now expected to include Ward, Gaye, and second-year player Jaylen Harrell.

In addition to Ridley and Key, McCoy confirmed that special teams contributor and wide receiver Bryce Oliver and reserve offensive lineman Blake Hance have also been ruled out for the game against the Patriots.

As the Titans prepare for this crucial matchup, the absence of these key players may significantly impact their performance against New England, who is also looking to solidify their standing in the league. The Titans will need to rely on their remaining roster to step up in this challenging situation.