The Tennessee Titans are gearing up for a new season with Cam Ward confirmed as their primary quarterback. However, the team faces a crucial decision regarding the backup signal-caller, with Will Levis and Mitch Trubisky set to compete for the role. General Manager Mike Borgonzi has suggested that the Titans might roster a third quarterback for the 2026 season, a less common strategy in the NFL, indicating a thorough evaluation process for their quarterback depth. Coach Robert Saleh emphasized that both Levis and Trubisky will be given extensive opportunities to prove themselves worthy of the QB2 position, highlighting the importance of this competition for the team's strategic planning and performance.
This internal rivalry is not just about securing a backup spot; it also reflects on the past projections and current development of both players. Levis, a former second-round pick, has yet to fully live up to expectations, despite his notable athletic traits and arm strength in college. Trubisky, a higher draft pick in 2017, also has a history of not consistently meeting his initial professional forecasts. The outcome of this competition is vital for the Titans, not only for immediate roster decisions but also for shaping the team's future quarterback landscape. The preseason will undoubtedly offer a compelling look into how these dynamics play out on the field.
The Battle for Second-String Quarterback Heats Up
The Tennessee Titans are heading into the upcoming season with Cam Ward firmly established as their starting quarterback, but a fierce competition is brewing for the pivotal backup spot. Head coach Robert Saleh has clearly stated that both Will Levis and Mitch Trubisky will be given significant opportunities to prove themselves worthy of the QB2 position. This decision signals the team's commitment to ensuring robust quarterback depth, an aspect that General Manager Mike Borgonzi hinted could even lead to the team carrying a third quarterback on the roster—a strategy not universally adopted across the NFL. The contest between Levis and Trubisky is therefore a critical element of the Titans' preseason, as they assess who can best support Ward and step in if needed.
For Will Levis, a former second-round draft pick, this competition represents a crucial chance to demonstrate growth and consistency after a tenure marked by unfulfilled expectations. While his collegiate career showcased raw athleticism and powerful arm talent, these attributes haven't fully translated into the sustained passing precision required at the NFL level. Mitch Trubisky, an earlier and higher draft selection in 2017, also arrives with a history of not consistently meeting the high professional benchmarks set for him. The Titans' staff will be meticulously evaluating their performances, decision-making, and command of the offense during training camp and preseason games. The outcome will not only determine who serves as Ward's immediate backup but could also influence longer-term roster decisions, including potential trade scenarios for the player who doesn't secure the role, making this battle one of the most anticipated storylines for the team.
Titans' Optimism Surrounding Cam Ward's Second Year
Beyond the backup quarterback competition, the Tennessee Titans harbor considerable optimism for the upcoming season, largely centered on the development of their starting signal-caller, Cam Ward. As Ward enters his second professional year, there's a strong belief within the organization that he has significantly evolved from his rookie campaign. His first year concluded with a completion rate just under 60%, accumulating 3,169 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. This statistical foundation, particularly his strong finish to the 2025 season, suggests a substantial learning curve and adaptation to the NFL game, providing a solid platform for further improvement in the new season.
Ward himself has highlighted situational awareness as a key area of his growth, attributing this to intensive film study and collaboration with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. He emphasized understanding not just the "what" of play-calling but the "why"—considering game flow, clock management, and strategic implications. This deeper understanding of the game's nuances is expected to translate into more composed and effective play on the field. The Titans are keen to see how these refined skills will impact the overall offensive performance, especially after a somewhat inconsistent showing in the 2025 season. The team anticipates that Ward's continued maturation will be a driving force behind a more cohesive and successful offensive unit as they head into the regular season, marking a pivotal year for both Ward and the franchise.
