There’s currently no timetable for the return of 35-year-old Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker.
But that hasn’t stopped the veteran from staying optimistic and pushing through as he continues his recovery from a Week 1 season-ending injury he sustained against the Miami Dolphins in 2018.
“I’m a different type of animal,” he said Monday as the Titans kicked off their offseason activities.
Despite the setback, Walker still thinks he’s healthier than even some of the league’s youngest players.
“I love playing this game. I’ve been doing it for a long time. I’m still healthy enough to play, even at my age. I feel like I’m healthier than 21-year-olds that come in this league, so why stop? When my body tells me to stop playing, I’m pretty sure I’ll retire. But it’s telling me to keep going. So that’s what I’m going to do.”
The pass-catcher hopes to be back soon, and has already made strides in his recovery throughout the offseason. He’s been using a special treadmill, running on 80 percent of his body weight at 10 mph.
Walker will follow a customized plan as his other teammates go through regular workouts.
While he’s obviously not pleased with the circumstances, he knows it’s necessary.
“I’d rather be out there running with the guys and doing the activities that they’re doing, but again, I’ve got to be smart. I know what type of injury I had. I don’t want to push it to where it sets me back before the season starts.”
