NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The injury report has taken a concerning turn for the Tennessee Titans, who have found their most reliable scoring option facing potential challenges. Kicker Nick Folk, who has been instrumental in what has otherwise been a dismal season for the team, has been experiencing some soreness. He successfully made two field goals last week, including a 46-yarder, which accounted for the Titans’ only points in their defeat to the Jaguars. Despite participating in practice, Folk was among six players who did not practice on Wednesday as reported by the team.
Coach Brian Callahan addressed Folk’s condition, describing it as “general soreness.” At 40 years old, Folk’s age is a factor in determining his physical readiness. In response to this situation, the Titans (3-10) re-signed Brayden Narveson to the practice squad on Tuesday. Narveson had previously been with the team during training camp, and his presence serves as a safeguard for Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals (5-8).
“Being cautious with kickers and any leg soreness is crucial,” Callahan said. “He finished the game but felt sore afterward. He typically does not practice on Wednesdays, but we will see how he feels after attempting to kick tomorrow.” The outcomes of Thursday’s practice will provide further insight into Folk’s status moving forward.
Folk has achieved an impressive feat with an NFL record of 85 consecutive successful field goals from less than 40 yards, which includes a pivotal 39-yarder that allowed the Titans to briefly lead last week. He stands 14th in NFL history with 403 field goals made and is only four behind Arizona’s Matt Prater, who has 407 but is currently sidelined due to injury.
Earlier this offseason, Folk signed a contract with the Titans after being traded from New England. He has since seen tremendous success, achieving a franchise record by converting 96.7% of his field goals (29 out of 30). This season, he has been nearly flawless, successfully completing all 22 extra-point attempts and going 21 of 22 on field goals, including a career-long 56-yarder.
Narveson showcased his skill during the preseason, allowing Folk to focus on preparations for the regular season. The NC State alum excelled, making 6 of 7 field goal attempts, highlighted by a 59-yarder and a game-winning 46-yarder against the Seattle Seahawks. His only miss came during the Titans’ preseason finale on a 58-yarder, which was almost returned for a touchdown. He successfully made his first attempt, but it was called back due to a timeout.
After being waived by Tennessee, Narveson was claimed by Green Bay. However, he was later released by the Packers in October following his struggles, having missed a league-high five field goal attempts.
“If Nick cannot play this Sunday, Brayden will be ready to step in,” Callahan mentioned regarding Narveson’s preparedness. “Familiarity with him is beneficial, and we appreciate having him available should we need a backup option.”
In other news, quarterback Will Levis participated fully in practice on Wednesday. He had shared after the game against Jacksonville that he received treatment for his right throwing shoulder, which he aggravated during the game. He initially sprained the AC joint in his shoulder during a victory over Miami on September 30, leading to a three-game absence due to the injury.
“I feel good,” Levis remarked following a 75-minute practice session. “I’ll monitor how the week progresses and how my body reacts, but I definitely feel better than last time.”
