Tennessee Titans linebacker Cedric Gray has been placed in the NFL's concussion protocol after sustaining a head injury in an off-road vehicle accident over the weekend. The incident occurred just days before the Titans are set to begin their 2026 season, presenting a setback for the team's defense.
The Titans confirmed the news on Monday, stating that Gray was involved in a UTV accident in Tennessee and suffered a concussion along with other minor injuries. "We look forward to Cedric returning to the field soon and in full health when he clears the NFL's concussion protocol," the team said in a statement.
Gray, a fourth-round pick from North Carolina in the 2024 NFL Draft, emerged as a key player for the Titans in 2025. After appearing in seven games as a rookie with no starts, he became an indispensable part of the defense last season, starting 16 games and recording a career-high 160 tackles, which ranked fifth in the NFL.
His availability for Tennessee's season opener against the New York Jets on Sunday afternoon is now in question as he must progress through the league's established return-to-play protocol. This process requires evaluation and clearance from both team medical staff and an Independent Neurological Consultant before a player can resume full contact activities.