The inevitable has finally found its way to Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park. DeAndre Hopkins is now reported to be out for the next 4-6 weeks according to Paul Kuharsky and confirmed by other reports. Although the Titans didn’t practice today Hopkins was seen Wednesday with a wrap on his left leg and partook in some on field drills.

The Titans inevitably find themselves in injury trouble one way or another and this is just more of same ‘ol same ‘ol. It’s an unfortunate situation but thankfully it’s happening now rather than later. The Titans will open the season against the Bears on September 8th which is about 5 1/2 weeks from today. There’s a solid chance that he can still make that game and the Titans will hopefully do what they can without further stressing or pushing his injury to make game one. If the timeline is 6 weeks then Hopkins would be back before the Jets game. Regardless, Hopkins will miss key training camp time with Levis and the offense as they now try to navigate this brave new world.

Meanwhile, as the Titans will assuredly miss DeAndre Hopkins that leaves a hole on the roster at WR2 in the immediate future. Treylon Burks and NWI probably be slated to fill that role as Hopkins works his way back to be ready by week one. This could be the saving grace that Burks needs so he can cement his roster spot and prove that he belongs in the NFL after a tumultuous two years.

“Next man up” has been the mantra for much of the Mike Vrabel era as the Titans have consistently been one of the most injured teams in the NFL. Brian Callahan will need to come up with a stellar gameplan if Hopkins is not ready to go by week one against a stingy Bears defense. For now, the Titans are in “wait and see” as they hold their breath for a timely recovery by Hopkins.