Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard looked like he was at his best in the 10-6 loss against the Jacksonville Jaguars last Sunday, recording 21 rushes for 102 yards. He was also effective in the passing game, recording two receptions for 22 yards.
However, he popped on Tennessee's first injury report on Wednesday as a nonparticipant. Pollard didn't appear to have suffered any injury against the Jags in his last game, so it's still unclear how he sustained the ankle injury the team designated him with on Wednesday.
Though he hasn't missed a game yet, the former fourth-round pick has missed several Wednesday practices this season due to foot and ankle issues.
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Given that Pollard is one of the Titans' most crucial offensive players, it seems like they are simply exercising extra caution with him. Going by the veteran running back's practice pattern over the past few weeks, he could return to full participation later this week.
Pollard's condition must be closely monitored till the end of the week as Tennessee continues to get ready for their Week 15 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. He should be able to play if he returns to practice on Thursday or Friday.
Having said that, the Titans have already been knocked out of postseason contention, so if Pollard is dealing with an ankle injury, the team might choose not to rush him back this week.
Second-year running back Tyjae Spears is expected to start as the starting RB1 on Sunday if Pollard's injury proves to be more severe than we initially believed and he is unable to play in Week 15 versus the Bengals. Julius Chestnut could also be in line to carry more workload in the Titans’ backfield if Pollard is inactive on Sunday.
How has Tony Pollard performed this season
Tony Pollard signed a three-year, $24 million contract with the Tennessee Titans in March, replacing running back Derrick Henry. Before joining Tennessee, he completed his second straight 1,000-yard rushing season with the Dallas Cowboys.
Pollard has been the Titans' top offensive player this season, despite the team's roster lacking many standout players. He has rushed for four touchdowns and 937 yards as of Week 14. He has also recorded 39 receptions for 233 yards
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