David

Stewart

Bell has been taking first-team snaps but his size (6-4/295) is better suited for a guard position. Stewart and Loper were 2005 fourth and fifth-round picks, respectively.

It’s another boost for Chris Johnson. Although backup Mike Otto handled himself well, Stewart is considered one of the Titans’ best run blockers. Johnson is a clear RB1 against the Bills’ defense that yields 4.5 yards per carry on the season.

Stewart was spotted with a bag of ice on the calf to open the second half. He’s arguably Tennessee’s best run blocker, so this won’t help Chris Johnson’s chances of breaking out of his funk. Stewart’s backup is Mike Otto.

Mike Otto draws the start at right tackle, downgrading Chris Johnson’s chances of a quality day on the ground. Middle linebacker Barrett Ruud (groin) is also out, leading to another start for impressive rookie Colin McCarthy. The rest of the Titans’ inactives: QB Rusty Smith, RB Jamie Harper, WR Donnie Avery, C/G Kevin Matthews and DT Zach Clayton.

NBC’s Cris Collinsworth made a similar statement a couple of weeks ago. Peters is the rare player to leave television analysts and stat-heads in lockstep. Pro Football Focus also grades Peters as the league’s premier tackle, second (Phil Loadholt) in run-blocking and fourth (Joe Thomas, David Stewart, Andrew Whitworth) in pass-blocking.

It didn’t look good. A Houston defender dove at the back of Stewart’s legs and his leg appeared to be broken, or he’s dealing with an ankle injury. Trainers put a brace on his leg immediately. Mike Otto is in at right tackle.

Stewart will likely be placed on season-ending injured reserve this upcoming week. Mike Otto will play right tackle for the season’s final four-plus games. Stewart graded out as Pro Football Focus’ eighth-best right tackle in the league through the first 11 games and excels as a pass blocker.

The injury occurred in Tennessee’s Week 13 loss to Houston. Pro Football Focus has graded Stewart as a top-25 offensive tackle this season, and he book ends one of the Titans’ few strengths opposite LT Michael Roos. Stewart is under contract relatively affordably in 2013 with a $5 million base salary and $1 million offseason roster bonus. Expect him to return as a starter.

The injury cost Stewart the final four games of the season. Stewart is due $6 million between salary and bonuses, but played well enough in 2012 to be retained at that price.

It’s an upgrade on Stewart’s previous prognosis, which had him ready for training camp. Due $6 million between salary and bonuses, Stewart remains locked into a starting job coming off a solid 2012.