Titans rookie reaches career milestone in the most unexpected way
NASHVILLE — When Tennessee Titans rookie tight end Josh Whyle imagined catching his first touchdown in the NFL, he probably didn't expect the pass to be thrown by one of the game's best running backs. But in Tennessee's 27-3 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 4, that's exactly how it went down. Late in […]
NASHVILLE — When Tennessee Titans rookie tight end Josh Whyle imagined catching his first touchdown in the NFL, he probably didn't expect the pass to be thrown by one of the game's best running backs.
But in Tennessee's 27-3 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 4, that's exactly how it went down. Late in the first half, the Titans were on the goal line trying to extend their lead when Derrick Henry took a direct snap and found Whyle in the back of the end zone.
"I didn't think so until earlier this week when we put the play in. It was pretty cool," said Whyle after the game when asked if he ever thought his first touchdown would be thrown by Henry. "That was a new play this week. We got a couple reps at it and worked on it a couple times. Derrick threw a good ball today and that's all that matters."
According to Whyle, there was no second option from that formation. It was boom or bust for the Titans. If Whyle wasn't open, Henry was instructed to throw the ball into the seats so Nick Folk could still kick a field goal.
Fortunately the play was there and the Titans were able to extend the lead to 24-3 before the half.
But for Whyle, Sunday's game wasn't just about the milestone of his first career catch or first career touchdown. His performance in the win was a big step forward for his role this season and a testament to his versatility and mindset.
After a tough stretch of preseason games and playing just 22 combined snaps in Tennessee's first three regular season contests, having a significant contribution can take some weight off a rookie's shoulders.
"It takes everybody to get wins in this league. Everybody knows they have to contribute, so it feels good," said Whyle after the game.
Earlier this week, Titans head coach Mike Vrabel was complimentary of Whyle's versatility and attitude. "I like kind of where his attitude is. He's willing and just continue to improve," Vrabel said.
Regardless of how it happened, Whyle getting the first one out of the way could be a good sign of things to come.
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