Tannenbaum, the former NFL general manager and current ESPN analyst, sees the Miami quarterback as what the Titans need.
Mike Tannenbaum Values Ward Over Every Quarterback
The Tennessee Titans signed veteran quarterback Tim Boyle. Regardless of that fact, one quarterback won him over. Tannenbaum spent 24 years in NFL front offices, working up to Jets general manager.
By Tannenbaum’s assertions, Cam Ward should be an absolute fit, a no-doubt selection by the Titans. Veteran Tim Boyle can either act as a quick stopgap until Ward looks ready or immediately grab the clipboard. The ESPN analyst praises Ward and offers this tidbit.
“I’m not saying Will Levis’ career is over, but barring any unforeseen circumstances, I think Cam Ward will be a massive upgrade and a much better fit for Brian Callahan’s offense than Will Levis. While I’m not ready to completely write off Will Levis as an NFL starter, I think there’s a clear separation in talent between him and Ward,” Tannenbaum said. “This is an easy decision for Tennessee.”
Brutal Realism
While seemingly accurate, Levis catches a stray criticism, and Boyle doesn’t merit a mention. What Levis did/did not do made the drafting of Ward imperative. The Titans knew what Levis was/wasn’t but still drafted him. Before his 2023 drafting, NFL analyst Lance Zierlein offered the most direct take regarding Levis’s future, stating:
“He struggled to put together an extended period of high-caliber quarterback play in 2022 but also dealt with injuries he fought through for much of the season. Levis has the arm to beat coverages on all three levels, but inadequate placement and accuracy have created a lot of uncatchable throws.”
“He’s a capable runner outside the pocket but needs to improve his feel for pressure and consistency when throwing on the move.”
Completing 61 percent of his passes during his Titans’ career, Tannenbaum, like everyone with the gift of sight, can see that the former Kentucky standout isn’t the answer. A supercut of his worst throws exists right here.
Surrounding Talent
While Tannenbaum correctly stated the need to move on, what will Ward face if he becomes a Titan? Derrick Henry is in Baltimore, as are Van Jefferson, Calvin Ridley, and Treylon Burks. While that doesn’t inspire confidence, according to ESPN analyst Ben Solak, the Titans did accomplish something.
“I love How serious the Titans are about their offensive line,” Solak said. “They signed Moore to ensure JC Latham gets to play his natural position on the right side, while Zeitler will serve as a stopgap option at right guard… Four of the five projected starters will have been acquired in the past two offseasons, which tells me the face-lift is complete and quality offensive line play should be the expectation moving forward.”
“A good offensive line is a floor-raiser for any quarterback — Will Levis, a veteran or a rookie selected with the No. 1 overall pick.”
Building along the offensive line will help Ward immediately. Without the need to evacuate the pocket, the rookie can sit back and find targets with solid protection. Remember, the team’s general manager, Ran Carthon, is a former running back who values sound blocking.
Overview
Mike Tannenbaum came away impressed with Ward’s prospects. The Titans, as a franchise, continually swing and miss on quarterbacks. Marcus Mariota and Ryan Tannehill did provide a spark. However, fires win big games and sparks extinguish with a wind shift.
KEEP READING: Titans Waste No Time — Work Out Cam Ward Right After Signing a QB
In the 2025 NFL Draft, Tennessee can draft anyone with the first pick. The former general manager truly believes that Ward is not only the best fit but also the best overall player. Will they follow that line of thinking, or will they take a different path?
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