Tennessee Titans set to honor Frank Wycheck with helmet sticker

Each player for the Tennessee Titans (5-8) will have a No. 89 sticker on the back of their helmet for Sunday’s Week 15 home contest against the Houston Texans (7-6) in honor of team legend Frank Wycheck, who passed away last Saturday at the age of 52.

#Titans helmet sticker for Sunday, on #Oilers throwback helmet.
8️⃣9️⃣@FrankWycheck1 pic.twitter.com/mWHk0kHxuk

— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) December 15, 2023

Wycheck, the former tight end, passed away after falling at his home in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

“It is with great sadness that the family of Frank Wycheck has confirmed his death,” his family said in a statement. “Born Frank John Wycheck on October 14, 1971, he passed away in his home on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at the age of 52. Frank Wycheck spent 11 seasons in the NFL (1993 – 2003), primarily with the Tennessee Titans,” the statement read. “At this time, it appears Wycheck fell inside his Chattanooga, TN home and hit his head on Saturday morning. He was found unresponsive that afternoon.

“Wycheck moved to Chattanooga, TN this past summer to be closer to his family. He leaves behind two adult daughters, Deanna and Madison, both married, and three grandchildren – Leo, Stevie and August. The family, per his wishes, plans to work with experts for on-going brain injury (TBI) and CTE research. Funeral services have not yet been made at this time. The Wycheck family appreciates the love and support they’ve received, but asks the public to please respect their privacy during this difficult time. Thank you.”

Frank Wycheck is one of the best pass-catchers in Titans history

Wycheck, the former Maryland standout, was originally selected in the sixth-round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. He spent two seasons with the franchise before being released. He signed with the Houston Oilers in 1995, which later relocated to Tennessee and became the Titans.

In nine seasons with the Titans, he hauled in 482 receptions for 4,958 yards and 27 touchdowns. Wycheck is seventh on the Titans’ all-time receiving list. He earned a trip to the Pro Bowl on three separate occasions.

He is best known for his role in the “Music City Miracle” during the AFC Wild Card game against the Buffalo Bills on Jan. 8, 2000. Wycheck threw a cross-field pass to receiver Kevin Dyson on a kickoff return, who went 75 yards for a touchdown to give Tennessee the win.

Following his retirement, Wycheck did color commentary for Titans Radio, and he was a sports talk radio host for 104.5-FM’s “The Wake Up Zone” in Nashville.

Titans issue statement on passing of Frank Wycheck

“We are all devastated to hear the news of Frank’s passing,” Titans controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk said. “He was loved by so many, and his memory will always be cherished. Frank’s name was synonymous with Titans football. He was such a huge part of our team’s success both on and off the field. He embraced this community and fan base immediately, and everyone loved him right back.

“On the field he always seemed to be open and making key plays – he was even part of a Miracle. He worked to become one of the greatest NFL tight ends of his era, evidenced by his three Pro Bowl appearances. Off the field he was as approachable as anyone could ever be. Following his playing career, he continued his connection with our fans and community through his radio career. And his voice became one of the most recognizable in Middle Tennessee. His on-field work and accomplishments rightfully led to his induction in our Ring of Honor, cementing his legacy in our team’s lore. We offer our prayers and condolences for Frank’s family. Our football family mourns with you.”