The Tennessee Titans are in the process of crafting their 2023 roster and part of that process includes taking injured players and likely ending their seasons with a spot on injured reserve. That is what happened on Monday when the Titans placed Hassan Haskins on the list.
The second-year running back out of Michigan has been out with an injury since the Titans' first preseason game against the Chicago Bears. The specifics of the injury and the timeline of recovery are not known publicly, but regardless the odds are Haskins will not be seen again in 2023.
Haskins didn't put up a ton of production in his rookie season. With only 25 carries and 93 rushing yards in 2022, the Titans may not miss much in the way of running back production, but Haskins was a factor on special teams.
Haskins was second on the team in special teams tackles in 2022 with 13. He also returned 19 kickoffs for 414 yards. That versatility is something that is highly valued by the coaching staff.
Even if Haskins' injury timeline wouldn't necessarily put him out the entire season, the reality is the Titans don't need Haskins as a running back and can replace his special teams value with other positions.
If Haskins was kept on the roster or placed on IR after the the 53-man roster was set, the Titans would have to waive a healthy player they like to hold a spot for Haskins. They could risk losing a player like Julius Chestnut, Colten Dowell or Caleb Murphy.
Haskins' legal issues have to be acknowledged as well. Haskins is facing an aggravated assault charge. If the allegations prove true, Haskins will likely be released immediately. His trial is set for August 30.
This injured reserve designation also allows the Titans to keep Haskins on the team until he sees due process while giving him ample time to recover from his injury.
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