Titans Reunite with LB David Long Jr., Place Kenneth Murray Jr. on Injured Reserve

The Tennessee Titans are bringing back a familiar face to bolster their defense. On Wednesday, the team claimed linebacker David Long Jr. off waivers from the Detroit Lions, just days after he was released.

In a corresponding move, the Titans placed linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. on Injured Reserve, officially ending his season. Murray sustained a season-ending wrist injury during Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts.

Long, a sixth-round pick by the Titans in the 2019 NFL Draft, played for Tennessee from 2019 to 2022 before signing with the Miami Dolphins in 2023. After appearing in eight games for Miami this season, he joined the Lions and played in five more games. Long has now amassed 80 career NFL appearances, including 50 games during his initial stint with the Titans.

Over his career, Long has recorded 388 tackles, one sack, 27 tackles for loss, four interceptions, 15 passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. This season, splitting time between Miami and Detroit, he contributed 45 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery.

The loss of Murray is significant for the Titans, as he leads the team with 95 tackles, along with 3.5 sacks and 16 quarterback pressures this season. His absence leaves a notable gap in the defense as Tennessee prepares to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday in Jacksonville.

Long’s return offers the Titans an experienced linebacker familiar with their system, potentially helping the defense adapt to the loss of Murray as the team continues its season.