David

Thornton

“He’s still a ways away alright now,” Fisher said. “Right now he’s not able to practice, so no, he’s not (a starter).” Fisher went to call Thornton’s injury history a “legitimate concern.” The Titans have alternatives this year with Gerald McRath and Will Witherspoon.

Outside linebackers David Thornton and Keith Bulluck figure to be the beneficiaries, but this is a role neither’s played extensively. Thornton, coming off a down year (78 tackles after posting 122 in ’07), has four career sacks.

It won’t be WLB Keith Bulluck, despite speculation to the contrary. With Bulluck in decline, Thornton is now Tennessee’s quickest linebacker to the ball. He led the club with 122 tackles last season. Bulluck had only 88.

Thornton’s shoulder injuries have become chronic, and rookie Gerald McRath has played well in his place. The 31-year-old Thornton is signed for $4 million next season, though he’s unlikely to be brought back.

Gerald McRath will start for Thornton while Leroy Harris fills in as the starting right tackle.