Titans Expect Helm, Jefferson to Play as They Host Chiefs in Week 16

The Tennessee Titans are preparing to welcome the Kansas City Chiefs to Nissan Stadium with cautious optimism about their offensive availability. Despite both being listed as questionable on the injury report, tight end Gunnar Helm and wide receiver Van Jefferson are expected to play, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Their projected availability offers continuity for a Titans offense navigating the final weeks of a difficult season.

Tennessee enters Sunday’s matchup with a 2–12 record, firmly out of postseason contention, while Kansas City arrives at 6–8 looking to stabilize after a turbulent stretch of its own. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on CBS, with both teams facing pressure to finish the season competitively despite diminished playoff implications.

Fowler reported Saturday that Helm, dealing with a toe injury, and Jefferson, managing a back issue, are both trending toward playing. While neither player is considered fully healthy, their presence could help maintain structure in a passing game that has leaned increasingly on younger contributors.

For the Titans, the final three weeks represent more than just the remaining schedule. With postseason hopes long gone, the focus has shifted toward evaluation, development, and establishing consistency, making the availability of reliable pass catchers particularly valuable.

1. Helm’s Emergence in a Challenging Season

Helm, a 23-year-old rookie, has quietly become one of Tennessee’s most dependable offensive options. Through 14 games, he has caught 41 passes on 50 targets for 347 yards and two touchdowns, providing steady production amid frequent offensive adjustments. His role has expanded as the season has progressed, reflecting both his reliability and the Titans’ desire to assess younger talent. Helm’s average of 8.5 yards per reception underscores his effectiveness as a chain-moving option rather than a purely vertical threat. That growth was evident in Week 15 against San Francisco. Despite a 37–24 loss, Helm delivered one of his strongest performances, catching all four of his targets for 49 yards and a touchdown, including a career-long 34-yard reception. As Tennessee continues to reshape its offensive identity, Helm’s consistent involvement has positioned him as a foundational piece. His availability Sunday ensures the Titans can continue that evaluation process against a familiar AFC opponent.

2. Jefferson’s Veteran Presence Remains Important

While Helm represents the future, Jefferson provides experience and perspective within a young receiving corps. The 29-year-old has appeared in all 14 games this season, totaling 24 receptions on 47 targets for 280 yards and one touchdown. Jefferson’s numbers reflect the inconsistency that has plagued the Titans’ offense, but his role has extended beyond the stat sheet. His familiarity with NFL defenses and route concepts offers support for younger receivers still adjusting to the league. Against the 49ers, Jefferson recorded one catch for 43 yards on five targets. The reception marked his longest gain of the season, offering a rare downfield spark in an otherwise uneven offensive outing. If healthy enough to contribute Sunday, Jefferson’s presence should help balance Tennessee’s passing game, particularly in situations where experience and timing matter against disciplined coverage.

3. Late-Season Evaluation Continues

Kansas City arrives in Nashville facing adversity of its own. The Chiefs will be without quarterback Patrick Mahomes after he suffered a torn ACL in Week 15, a loss that effectively ended Kansas City’s playoff hopes for the first time since 2014. For Tennessee, the matchup provides an opportunity to measure progress against an opponent dealing with transition. While wins are no longer tied to postseason advancement, performance and competitiveness remain priorities. After Sunday, the Titans will host the New Orleans Saints in Week 17 for their final home game before closing the season on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 18, a matchup that will be flexed. With Helm and Jefferson expected to be available, Tennessee gains a degree of continuity as it navigates the closing stretch. Their presence supports ongoing evaluations while giving the Titans a better chance to remain competitive through the final weeks.