Justin Hunter Injury: Updates on Titans WR's Ankle and Return

Justin Hunter exited late in the Tennessee Titans' Week 10 matchup against the Carolina Panthers with what was determined to be a fractured ankle, which will end his season.

Hunter suffered the injury when Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly wrapped up Hunter and rolled over the wideout's legs. Hunter was eventually carted off the field. 

Continue for updates.

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Hunter Undergoing Surgery

Monday, Nov. 16

Head coach Mike Mularkey told reporters Hunter will go on injured reserve after the procedure.

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Hunter's X-Rays Reveal Major Injury

Sunday, Nov. 15

Jim Wyatt of TitansOnline.com reported Hunter suffered a fractured ankle and was in a cast and on crutches in the locker room after the loss to the Panthers.

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Mariota Comments on Hunter's Injury

Sunday, Nov. 15

“It’s tough to see anybody go down, especially like that," Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota said, via Wyatt. "It’s tough. Prayers go out to him and I hope he gets well soon.”

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Mularkey Comments on Hunter's Injury

Sunday, Nov. 15

"Not good," Titans interim head coach Mike Mularkey told reporters when asked about Hunter's status.

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Injury Will Further Slow Hunter's Development

Hunter hasn't developed any further than a third receiver with the Titans. In his first two seasons, he had a combined 46 receptions for 852 yards playing behind Kendall Wright and Nate Washington. 

This season is no different; except instead of Washington, it's tight end Delanie Walker getting more looks. Through nine games this season, Hunter has just 22 receptions for 264 yards.

He wasn't doing himself any favors during their Week 7 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, when he dropped a sure 78-yard touchdown that would have given the Titans the lead. 

Hunter's inability to make the big play is only going to hurt rookie Marcus Mariota, who is trying to establish himself as the franchise quarterback in Nashville.

Now, Mariota will have to turn toward receivers even lower on the depth chart like Harry Douglas and Dorial Green-Beckham while Hunter and Kendall Wright, who missed the Week 10 contest with a knee injury, recover. 

Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com.