ALAMEDA – Raiders cornerback David Amerson took a helmet near the chin late in a loss to Atlanta. It was a violent exchange, one that made medical personnel see red flags.
He was removed from the game and place in the NFL's concussion protocol, but Amerson didn't consider it a big deal.
"It wasn't really a blow to the head," Amerson said on Thursday. "I got hit below my chin, and it was more like getting knocked out. That was the main thing. I was knocked out for a minute. With the trainers on their job, they were being very cautious after that happened."
Amerson was cleared to practice and is expected to play Sunday's game against Tennessee.
"I feel good," Amerson said. "I feel normal, ready to go."
Amerson has had three concussions including this week's issue, plus one as a rookie and another the following year.
Raiders
"I've been fortunate. I've had concussions, but I don't think I've had any that would be considered severe or crazy where it's career ending," Amerson said. "They've been minor things. I'm fine right now. I don't feel any different."
Having Amerson available is key for a Raiders defense needing better pass defense. Amerson has been the only steady member of the back four thus far.
It's increasingly likely Menelik Watson will be ready to go. He practiced again Thursday, a day after his return from a groin injury.
Austin Howard, however, missed his second straight practice on Thursday, making it unlikely he'll be able to play against Tennessee. He originally sprained an ankle in the preseason finale, but was active in Week 2 with Watson and Matt McCants (knee). McCants remained out for a second straight week.
Darius Latham returned to practice after missing Wednesday's work with a knee injury.
Check back for updates. The Raiders and Titans will release a full participation report later Thursday afternoon.
