NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Titans offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger left the team Wednesday and will undergo chemotherapy after a cancer diagnosis, coach Jeff Fisher said after practice.
The 58-year-old coordinator had not been feeling well for several weeks, but the team was taken aback by the development. Fisher declined to offer any further details.
The Titans were informed of the news just before practice, offensive lineman Jake Scott said. Players and coaches huddled for a collective prayer after practice.
Fisher said first-year quarterback coach Dowell Loggains and offensive line coach Mike Munchak will have input into the passing and running games, respectively. Loggains will likely call the plays while Fisher will maintain a close oversight, he said.
Rookie quarterback Rusty Smith will make his first career start with Vince Young (thumb) on injured reserve, Kerry Collins (calf) still healing and Chris Simms just re-signed.
Paul Kuharsky covers the AFC South for ESPN.com.