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Jake Locker set to return to Tennessee Titans' lineup

Jake Locker is set to make his return to the Tennessee Titans.

Coach Mike Munchak confirmed the expected on Friday, announcing that Locker will start in place of quarterback Matt Hasselbeck when the Titans travel to the "Sunshine State" to face the Miami Dolphins.

Locker has been out since Sept. 30 after dislocating his left (non-throwing) shoulder for the second time in a month. Hasselbeck started five games in his place, guiding the Titans to a 2-3 mark.

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"He looks good," Munchak said, via The Tennessean. "He moves around well, his reactions were good. ... He handled everything well, and did all the things we wanted to see. There's no reason to think he won't be ready to play at a high level on Sunday."

Munchak said Locker went through practice without any problems. The Titans haven't placed any restrictions on the second-year player.

"How he plays, there is no control over that," Munchak said. "He is just going to react and go play. He has done a good job sliding and getting down -- he has a knack for that. He just needs to avoid ... taking the useless hits. And be smart about it -- get rid of the ball quicker and those kinds of things. And we have to be smart with the protection."

The timing couldn't be better for Locker's return. The Titans were embarrassed by the Chicago Bears at home last Sunday and this team needs to start finding out what pieces will be of use going forward.

That job is easier with the young franchise quarterback in the lineup.

Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.