After the heartbreaking loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 13, Tennessee Titans left tackle Jaelyn Duncan was seen with tears coming down his face following what was no doubt an emotional game for both teams.
Duncan made his second start at left tackle in the contest and no doubt took a step back after an impressive showing in his debut the week before. The Maryland product gave up three sacks in the losing effort.
Duncan admitted his desire to win and his individual performance played a factor in his emotional reaction to the disappointing defeat.
“To be honest, it’s kind of been like that ever since I started playing football,” he said, per Jim Wyatt. “I don’t really like losing; I don’t take losing lightly. I got a little emotional after the loss. Also, I could’ve performed a lot better. It’s being hard on myself, wishing I could take some plays back. It is what it is.”
Duncan, who noted that head coach Mike Vrabel told him the tears just mean he cares, said he feels he’s getting better every week.
“I feel like I get better every time I step out there,” he said. “I go ahead with great preparation, get ready for the week, and every time I step out there, the nerves and first-time jitters go away. This will be my third week out there so I’m just going to go out there and have some fun.”
.@CBSSports cameras showed tears running down the face of #Titans rookie tackle Jaelyn Duncan @king_jay70 after Sunday’s loss.
Duncan said he’s always been an emotional player. HC Mike Vrabel told Duncan “it’s a good thing that you care.” pic.twitter.com/f7yMutzqSG
— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) December 7, 2023
One thing you can’t teach a player is the desire to win. Thankfully, that’s one quality Duncan isn’t lacking.
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