One of the first orders of business for Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel on Friday was to address the arrest of his offensive coordinator, Todd Downing.
Downing was arrested for DUI and speeding near Nashville in the morning hours following the team’s Week 11 win over the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.
In his usual day-after presser, Vrabel touched on the subject:
“We all have a great responsibility as members of this community,” Vrabel said. “It’s something we are going to take very seriously, gather all the information we can and do our best to move forward. I don’t think discouraged is the word to describe it.”
One logical question that has been asked is, did the Titans have alcohol on the plane? That’s a question Vrabel declined to answer.
Vrabel said the #Titans are "gathering information" and that he won't be able to comment on alcohol being on the team plane or not.
— Terry McCormick (@terrymc13) November 18, 2022
The NFL has rules against alcohol on team planes and in team facilities, thus the Titans could face discipline as a team.
Full text of the memo from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, which was sent hours after #Titans OC Todd Downing was arrested on suspicion of DUI after the team’s win at Green Bay. pic.twitter.com/XT7QjIZPmr
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 18, 2022
The Titans head coach also noted he will address the team about the situation when they return to the facility, but he has spoken to some players about it.
Vrabel said he will make sure to address the Downing situation with the team once they return. Said there are a few players he has already spoken to.
— Terry McCormick (@terrymc13) November 18, 2022
Shortly after news broke of Downing’s arrest, the Titans released this brief statement, which is similar to Vrabel’s.
“We are aware of the reports regarding Todd Downing and are in the process of gathering additional information,” the team said, per Paul Kuharsky.
As is the case with all situations like these, the NFL will be taking a look at the matter and it’s possible Downing faces discipline.
