Marqueston Huff Suspended: Latest Details, Comments and Reaction

The Tennessee Titans announced Friday that safety Marqueston Huff has been suspended for the first game of the 2016 season due to a violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy. 

Huff, 24, is heading into his third season out of Wyoming. He made 15 tackles in 2015 as a backup defensive back and special teamer. The Titans expect Huff to serve as the primary backup behind offseason signee Rashad Johnson in 2016.

The impending suspension might wind up opening a door for one of the other three safeties on the roster. Kevin Byard was selected in the third round out of Middle Tennessee and looks like a potential long-term fit at strong safety. 

Lamarcus Brutus is another rookie who was plucked out of Florida State as an undrafted free agent. Brutus and fourth-year player Daimion Stafford are the likeliest to benefit from Huff's absence.

While a fringe player like Huff may be in danger of being released altogether in these instances, he's been a vital special teamer the last two years. Huff was on the field for 80.8 percent of special teams plays in 2015 and 62.6 percent as a rookie in 2014, per Football Outsiders. His skill and experience in that area are key on a team that still has a ton of growing to do.

The Titans also benefit from not having to make a roster decision right away. Because he's suspended, Huff does not count for their 53-man roster. He will only count once he is to be activated following Week 1.

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