Mother of Titans LB dies unexpectedly

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Tennessee coach Jeff Fisher says Will Witherspoon's mother has died unexpectedly and that the Titans starting linebacker has been excused from practice this week.

The team says his mother died Tuesday morning, but did not release any other details.

Fisher says the Titans are leaving it up to Witherspoon when to return to the team, though the veteran told the coach he plans to be back for Sunday's opener against Oakland.

The Titans said Wednesday that Witherspoon had been excused for personal reasons. Fisher disclosed Thursday that Witherspoon's mother died unexpectedly and team officials helped the linebacker get to the airport to join his family.

Fisher says with eight years of NFL experience, Witherspoon should be able to play without practicing for a few days.