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Nougat Davenport, ESPN
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis will return to the starting lineup for Sunday’s season finale against the Houston Texans.
“We’ll let him play,” Titans coach Brian Callahan said. “Let him try to finish the season on a good note and play well.”
Callahan said earlier this week that both Levis and Mason Rudolph would play against the Texans, but he waited to name the starter. Callahan said Friday that if Levis plays well and “feels it,” he will continue to play, but the coach added that he was still planning to find time for both quarterbacks.
At 3-13, the Titans are currently ranked No. 2 in the NFL draft. A victory could take them to seventh place, while a loss practically guarantees them the second selection, with the possibility of moving up to number 1.
Rudolph had been named the starter two weeks ago for Week 16 after replacing Levis the week before following Levis’ third interception, a pick-six, in a loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Levis’ 12 interceptions and 17 total turnovers were the most in the NFL at the time of his benching. Rudolph had three touchdown passes and four interceptions in the two games he started, both losses for the Titans.
Callahan said that influenced his decision to play both quarterbacks and ultimately give Levis the start.
“I’m excited to go out there and try to get another win,” Levis said. “I’m glad I got another chance. I sure wouldn’t want my last throw to be a pick-six.”
Levis was given the opportunity to be Tennessee’s starter in his second season with a team that was built to give him a chance to show he can be a franchise quarterback. With Levis throwing for 1,916 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, the Titans’ future at quarterback remains unclear.
“I would say everything matters,” Callahan said. “Every time you go out on the field in the league it’s part of [it]. “I don’t know if there is anything in this game that is going to overshadow, good or bad, all the work of the season.”
Running back Tony Pollard is listed as questionable. Pollard, who is dealing with an ankle injury, needs 83 rushing yards to finish with 1,100 on the season and activate a $250,000 incentive. He can earn an additional $200,000 if he scores two more touchdowns to reach seven for the season.
Callahan ruled out outside linebacker Arden Key, safety Amani Hooker, offensive lineman Jaelyn Duncan, running back Tyjae Spears, kicker Nick Folk, receiver Tyler Boyd and inside linebacker Otis Reese IV.
