The Tennessee Titan's quarterback situation just took a turn for the worst. Jake Locker has really developed this season and has helped lead the team to a 3-1 start. However, his season has hit a snag after a hip injury could keep Locker out for 4-6 weeks. The quarterback was hit midway through the third quarter and grabbed his right hip. Clearly in pain, Locker was taken straight to the hospital and has been ruled out for the immediate future.
The reaction from the Titans has not been positive. While the exact diagnosis of injury is unknown, the belief is that he will be out for a number of weeks. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that the Titans are considering placing Locker on the Injured Reserve- Destined for Return list. That would allow Locker to return for the final month of the season. With the strong start of the Titans, that could be a real game changers.
For now, the pressure is on Ryan Fitzpatrick to keep the momentum going. The backup has spent time as a starter in the past, but has yet to truly pan out as a quality NFL quarterback. However, with the talent around Fitzpatrick he might be able to handle the job and be a strong fantasy pickup.
Locker ranked 17th among fantasy quarterbacks and sadly Fitzpatrick will not get ranked any higher. But, his strong preseason performance proves there is hope that he could be a strong second quarterback in fantasy. Fitzpatrick had a 71.9 completion percentage in the preseason for 296 yards and five touchdowns. As a starter in Buffalo, Fitzpatrick ranked 20th among fantasy quarterbacks, completing 61 percent of his passes in 2012.
The Titans have better weapons surrounding Fitzpatrick than Buffalo did so his numbers could possibly increase. Andy Levitre and Chance Warmack anchor a strong offensive line that should keep the quarterback on the ground. Justin Hunter and Kendall Wright are two strong wide receivers that should be reliable targets for Fitzpatrick, not to mention Chris Johnson as the premier running back to keep things balanced.
Original x-rays for Locker were negative, but the team is putting the quarterback through additional testing to determine the overall issue. Head coach Mike Munchak noted that Locker was upset over the injury but the team was not panicking and is prepared to move on. Fantasy owners should do the same.
