C Kevin Mawae, a 16-year veteran, has made his goal. He will be in the opening lineup when the Titans visit the Steelers. Mawae had been out since last December, ironically against the Steelers, because of a torn triceps tendon in his right elbow that required surgery. He began camp on PUP, but played in the final two preseason games wearing a brace on the surgically repaired elbow. "The goal was always to get to this week, to be ready for the opener, and I'm there right now," Mawae said. "The frustrating part was not being able to take part in OTAs, but in hindsight, I didn't have the wear and tear over the offseason that tends to happen to some people. I've gotten enough work in over the last three or four weeks and I'm prepared." To Mawae, the injury is no longer a concern. "The elbow hasn't been any problem. I'm not worried about it," he said. "I haven't given it two thoughts. I'm just looking forward to getting back out there and competing and getting this team to the next level." 98//2009

Mawae is rehabilitating after offseason surgery to repair his torn right triceps tendon. His aim is to get ready for the NFL season opener Sept. 10 at Pittsburgh, and finish this season healthy.
08/17/2009