Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel won’t be on the sideline when the team takes on the Chicago Bears in the preseason finale on Saturday night.
Vrabel revealed that he has yet to receive a negative test after testing positive for COVID-19 on Sunday. Therefore, he remains quarantined and won’t be available for preseason Week 3.
He also noted that special teams coach Craig Aukerman, who was filling in for Vrabel during Monday’s practice but has been absent since, is also in the COVID protocol and likely won’t be on the sideline on Saturday night, either.
Vrabel, who says he is feeling better and along with other players believes the vaccine helped lessen their symptoms, did not reveal who would be running the show in his own absence.
Vrabel: Almost positive not allowed to be in contact during game. In-season, would be more concerned. Will watch and listen to Mike Keith and Dave McGinnis. #Titans
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) August 26, 2021
Vrabel confirms Craig Aukerman is in the protocol, doesn't think he will be available for the game. #Titans
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) August 26, 2021
Mike Vrabel says he has not had any negative tests but feels great. #Titans
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) August 26, 2021
Vrabel believes symptoms in his case have been less because he has the COVID-19 vaccine. Has heard similar from some of the players. #Titans
— Ben Arthur (@benyarthur) August 26, 2021
Aside from Vrabel and Aukerman being in the COVID protocol, the Titans currently have seven players on the COVID-19 list, including quarterback Ryan Tannehill, who was placed there on Thursday.
The other six players include outside linebacker Harold Landry, linebackers Nick Dzubnar and Justin March-Lillard, running back Jeremy McNichols, defensive lineman Anthony Rush, and tight end Geoff Swaim.
Vrabel believes that all players who are currently on the COVID-19 list will be ready for the start of the season.
#Titans' Vrabel: Very real possibility that all COVID guys will all be back, healthy and ready to help for start of season.
— John Glennon (@glennonsports) August 26, 2021
Tennessee has begun taking extra precaution at their facility in the midst of all this, as players, coaches and staff are now required to wear a mask inside the building.
Tennessee and Chicago will meet at Nissan Stadium on Saturday night, with kickoff set for 6 p.m. CT.
