NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Tennessee Titans placed tight end Delanie Walker on injured reserve on Wednesday. Walker suffered a bruised ankle and has not played since the Titans' 16-0 loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 6.
Walker tore ligaments in the same ankle in 2018, resulting in him being placed on injured reserve.
"We didn't think we would be able to get him back and have some meaningful snaps," head coach Mike Vrabel said. "He worked very hard to come back but has not been able to, and it's disappointing," .
Walker ends the season with 21 receptions for 215 yards and two touchdowns. Both of Walker's touchdown receptions came in the season opener. The 14-year veteran will turn 36 years old when the Titans report to training camp in 2021. He will count for $8.3 million towards the salary cap next year. The Titans can save just short of $7 million if they release him before the season.
Third-year tight end Jonnu Smith will continue to start with Walker being out. Smith has 22 receptions for 287 yards and a touchdown this season.