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[Tennessee Titans]

Titans schedule release news and rumors tracker

Photo by Carly Mackler/Getty Images

We should see news about the schedule leaking out through the day.

[UPDATE 1:16 PM] - Easton Freeze reports the Titans' home opener will come in week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams.

The Tennessee Titans home opener will be in Week 2, hosting the Los Angeles Rams.

Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay come to Nashville in what will be another stiff test for Cam Ward and Brian Callahan, coming off their Week 1 game in Denver.

— Easton Freeze (@eastonfreeze) May 14, 2025​

The NFL is set to release the full 2025 NFL schedule tonight. There have already been plenty of leaks at this point. The only one that I have seen so far for the Tennessee Titans is that they will be playing week one on the road against the Denver Broncos (via Jordan Schultz). That is disappointing, because as I wrote earlier this week, I really wanted Cam Ward’s first NFL start to be at Nissan Stadium. It shouldn’t be a surprise that the NFL wouldn’t do that for the Titans.

We will keep track of the leaks that involve the Titans here throughout the day. Please add anything legitimate you see during the day in the comments. We will have another post tonight when the full schedule is released with some initial thoughts on what the Titans will face in 2025.

Titans 2025 schedule we know (so far):

Week 1 - @ Broncos

Week 2 - vs. Los Angeles Rams

Week 3 -

Week 4 -

Week 5 -

Week 6 -

Week 7 -

Week 8 -

Week 9 -

Week 10 -

Week 11 -

Week 12 -

Week 13 -

Week 14 -

Week 15 -

Week 16 -

Week 17 -

Week 18 -

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2025/5/14/24430099/titans-schedule-release-news-rumors-tracker

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Tennessee Titans 2025 schedule release

Photo by Carly Mackler/Getty Images

We have known the Titans' opponents for months, but now we know the order the Titans will play them in during the 2025 NFL Season. It’s good to see two of the first three games at home, but I still wish Cam Ward’s first start could have come at Nissan Stadium.

Your Tennessee Titans 2025 schedule:

Titans 2025 schedule we know (so far):

Week 1 - @ Denver Broncos

Week 2 - vs. Los Angeles Rams

Week 3 - vs. Indianapolis Colts

Week 4 - @ Houston Texans

Week 5 - @ Arizona Cardinals

Week 6 - @ Las Vegas Raiders

Week 7 - vs. New England Patriots

Week 8 - @ Indianapolis Colts

Week 9 - vs. Los Angeles Chargers

Week 10 - BYE

Week 11 - vs. Houston Texans

Week 12 - vs. Seattle Seahawks

Week 13 - vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Week 14 - @ Cleveland Browns

Week 15 - @ San Francisco 49ers

Week 16 - vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Week 17 - vs. New Orleans Saints

Week 18 - @ Jacksonville Jaguars

A couple of things that jump out right away:

• No primetime games as of now. The only way the Titans could end up with a primetime game is if Cam Ward plays well and they are winning games. They could be flexed to a Sunday Night Football game late in the year in that scenario.
• I love the BYE being in week 10. That is basically right in the middle of the schedule. It was so early last year that it made the back half of the season really tough.

Now that you have seen the schedule, which stretch do you think will be the toughest?

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2025/5/14/24430298/tennessee-titans-2025-schedule-release

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Titans vs. Broncos: Tennessee a 7-point underdog on the road

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The Titans are a big underdog on the road in their season opener.

The Tennessee Titans are going to be a vastly different team when they open the 2025 season in Denver than they were when the 2024 season ended. Of course, the biggest difference will be Cam Ward under center. The whole offseason was built around drafting Ward with the first overall pick.

The biggest question is, did they do enough to set Ward up for success? On the offensive line, the answer is yes. They added Dan Moore to play left tackle. That allows them to switch JC Latham to right tackle - the position he played in college at Alabama. They also added Kevin Zeitler to play right guard. That group should be quite a bit better than it was last year.

From a weapons perspective, it remains to be seen if they did enough. They did not draft a pass catcher for Ward until day three, but they did add three pass catchers in the fourth round. The key will be for Brian Callahan and his staff to identify the best ways to help those guys find success early in the season.

Even with all the upgrades, the Titans still opened as a 7-point underdog at FanDuel on the road against the Denver Broncos. Maybe it’s the homer in me, but I’d take the Titans there. I still don’t buy Bo Nix as an NFL quarterback. The key for the Titans in that one will be limiting the big plays from the Broncos’ offense and the Titans’ offensive line giving Ward time to make some plays.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...oncos-week-1-underdogs-road-bet-gambling-odds

 

[Tennessee Titans]

The 5 most exciting games on the Tennessee Titans’ 2025 schedule

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Analyzing the Tennessee Titans’ 2025 schedule

The Tennessee Titans released their 2025 schedule via a creative social media video on Wednesday. Among the storylines, rookie No. 1 overall quarterback Cam Ward will presumably make his debut on the road against the Denver Broncos in Week 1. The Titans don’t have any primetime games, play on Sunday’s only, and endure both a lengthy road and home stand.

Having analyzed the schedule in fine detail, we’ve identified the five most exciting matchups.

Week 2: Los Angeles Rams​

Ward’s home opener will occur in Week 2 versus the Los Angeles Rams. If all goes according to plan, it’ll be the current Nissan Stadium’s second-last home opener. Ward’s Nashville debut promises to be an entertaining affair against Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford, a quarterback Titans head coach Brian Callahan previously coached for two seasons.

Week 7: New England Patriots​

Former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel will return to Nashville in Week 7, now in charge of the New England Patriots. Vrabel was in charge for six campaigns, leading the Titans to four consecutive winning seasons, including an AFC Championship Game appearance and back-to-back division titles. It’ll mark the return of several former players and coaches, including Harold Landry III, Terrell Williams, Todd Downing, Ryan Cowden, and others.

Week 11: Houston Texans​

The Titans won’t be wearing their Houston Oilers throwbacks versus the Texans this year, but their annual meeting at Nissan Stadium is always a keynote one for ownership. As abysmal as the Titans were last season, they actually defeated the Texans 32-27 in a Week 12 thriller. They then concluded the season on a six-game losing streak.

Week 16: Kansas City Chiefs​

As mentioned, the Titans were one of just three teams to be denied a primetime game. The NFL’s VP of Broadcast Planning Mike North pointed out the Titans will possess an opportunity to play themselves into a primetime game, citing the Week 16 battle with the Kansas City Chiefs as a potential late-season flex. Hopefully it’s the first of several showdowns between Ward and Patrick Mahomes.

Week 18: Jacksonville Jaguars​

The Week 18 regular-season finale is set between the Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars. Ideally, the Titans will be playing for something. If Tennessee’s postseason chances are alive, there’ll be significant hype surrounding the meeting in Jacksonville.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...g-games-on-the-tennessee-titans-2025-schedule

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Did Titans land their future 3 starting WRs during the 2025 NFL Draft?

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This would be so perfect for the Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans entered the offseason needing to acquire solutions at wide receiver. The only proven asset at the position was Calvin Ridley, a near 31-year-old wideout who was signed by the previous regime. New GM Mike Borgonzi was patient, but he acquired three intriguing rookies during the 2025 NFL Draft.

After ignoring the need at receiver with their second-and-third-round picks, the Titans drafted two wideouts in the fourth round, Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor. Tennessee then landed Xavier Restrepo in undrafted free agency, Cam Ward’s go-to target at Miami last season. Together, Dike, Ayomanor, and Restrepo could be the long-term solutions Brian Callahan so desperately needs at receiver.

Let’s begin this topic by acknowledging the obvious. History suggests the Titans didn’t land three future starters in Dike, Ayomanor, and Restrepo, especially when considering they were added in rounds four and undrafted free agency. The percentages indicate the Titans would be fortunate if one of them developed into an above-average NFL player.

What’s most exciting to explore about this trio of receivers is how they could perfectly fit Callahan’s offense in different roles.

Ayomanor is a big-bodied “X” receiver, cut from that Tee Higgins/DeAndre Hopkins cloth in terms of schematic fit in Callahan’s offense. He’ll compete for snaps on the boundary. During rookie minicamp, Callahan said Dike would start by learning the Z and slot positions. That makes him a potential successor to the aging Ridley if he can play that “flanker” spot. Restrepo is obviously a slot receiver, using leverage and route-running to make up for a lack of desired size and athleticism.

Through some perfect storm, or meticulous roster planning, the Titans landed a trio of wideouts who are best-served to play X, Z, and slot, the three receiver positions in Callahan’s preferred 11 personnel offense.

The Titans brought in Van Jefferson and Tyler Lockett in free agency. Both are veteran wideouts who project to contribute in 2025. But both are also one-year temporary solutions who probably don’t figure into the 2026 plans.

Wide receiver might be another massive roster need next offseason, given Ridley’s advancing age and the lack of depth. The Titans would catch a terrific break in that department if Ayomanor, Dike, and Restrepo could develop into future solutions. They’d perfectly fill all three receiver roles in Callahan’s offense.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...ture-3-starting-wrs-during-the-2025-nfl-draft

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Who will be the Titans’ “X” receiver in 2025?

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The most exciting position battle on the Tennessee Titans will occur at wide receiver

The Tennessee Titans recently kicked off their offseason program. Rookie minicamp is officially in the books. Cam Ward and the rookies were also briefly joined by the veterans for a voluntary portion of offseason workouts.

The Titans’ first day of organized team activities (OTAs) is scheduled for May 27. Six OTAs will take place between then and June 5. A three-day minicamp is set for June 10-12 before training camp eventually marks its arrival. Position battles may begin emerging, and none is more intriguing than the multi-man battle at “X” wide receiver.

The boundary receiver is an important one in Brian Callahan’s offense. He previously had Tee Higgins in that role when he was the offensive coordinator of the Cincinnati Bengals. Entering 2024 with the Titans, DeAndre Hopkins was the ideal traditional fit for that spot.

The Titans are currently unsure who will command that position in 2025.

It was Nick Westbrook-Ikhine at “X” following Hopkins’ trade to the Kansas City Chiefs. Westbrook-Ikhine walked in free agency. The Titans signed Van Jefferson to replace him. Jefferson has been underwhelming in recent years, and it’s fair to question if he’s the best option to play in the starting lineup.

Jefferson is the most experienced option. Rookie fourth-round pick Elic Ayomanor projects as his biggest offseason challenger. Ayomanor has a prototypical frame to play “X” at 6-foot-2 and 206 pounds (verified measurements at the NFL Combine). The former Stanford standout routinely contorts his body mid-flight and makes acrobatic catches typical of a big-bodied boundary playmaker.

But Ayomanor won’t be handed the starting gig. The Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada native will have to earn it by proving he can quickly pick up the playbook and execute the concepts without making your typical rookie mistakes. Jefferson, now a seven-year pro, should make a quicker acclimation in training camp, though he lacks the physical upside of Ayomanor.

The wild-card is Treylon Burks. The 2022 first-round bust appears primed to receive one final opportunity to play himself into a meaningful role. Burks is entering a contract year after the Titans made the no-brainer decision to decline his fifth-year option.

The Titans can’t financially benefit from releasing Burks. The alternative is a trade. The Titans probably can’t realistically get more than a conditional sixth-or-seventh-round conditional pick in exchange for Burks. It still qualifies as a very realistic outcome at any point during the offseason, given his recurring failures in Nashville.

The Titans’ battle at “X” receiver comes down to Jefferson, Ayomanor, and Burks. You’d be hard-pressed to call any of them a straightforward favorite to start in Week 1. Veteran experience probably gives Jefferson a slight advantage.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2025/5/19/24433140/who-will-be-the-titans-x-receiver-in-2025

 

[Tennessee Titans]

How quickly will Femi Oladejo establish himself on Titans defense?

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Will the second-round pick be a starter for the Tennessee Titans in 2025?

Pretty much everyone agrees the biggest weakness on the Tennessee Titans’ roster heading into the 2025 campaign is the EDGE-rushing group. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson saw his unit record the third-fewest sacks in the NFL during the 2024 season. The lack of a consistent threat off the edge was the defense’s biggest culprit. The situation hasn’t improved on paper this offseason.

First-year GM Mike Borgonzi parted ways with Harold Landry, releasing him from his contract. The only notable move made in free agency was to sign Dre’Mont Jones to a one-year contract. Jones is an NFL-caliber defender who failed to meet expectations with the Seattle Seahawks. Veteran rusher Lorenzo Carter was also signed, but he’s been a deep rotational option at best throughout his career.

After trading back, Borgonzi used his second-round selection on former UCLA EDGE Femi Oladejo. The question immediately becomes how quickly could Oladejo contribute to the Titans defense? Wilson probably enters Week 1 with Arden Key and Jones as his starting edges.

How long does that remain the case?

Ideally, on most NFL defenses, Key and Jones are No. 3 rushers. The Titans have instead have them both penciled into starting roles. Furthermore, Key, Jones, and Carter are all on expiring contracts. Borgonzi clearly doesn’t view them as long-term solutions.

Oladejo spent the majority of his college career playing inside linebacker. He was miscast in that role. Oladejo made the midseason switch to EDGE in 2024. His athletic profile indicates its his best future forecast position, but an acclimation period may be required.

The Titans’ lack of overall talent at EDGE would typically indicate Oladejo possesses a terrific opportunity to quickly capture an immediate role. His career arc somewhat complicates that expectation. For Oladejo to quickly eat into Jones’ and Key’s workload, he’ll need to prove capable of playing EDGE on a full-time basis rather early in the schedule.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...i-oladejo-establish-himself-on-titans-defense

 

[Tennessee Titans]

PFF: Cam Ward in “worse situation” than Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough

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Pro Football Focus thinks Tennessee Titans rookie QB Cam Ward is in a worse situation than some of his peers

Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward is expected to start against the Denver Broncos in Week 1, even if head coach Brian Callahan wants to pretend this is a true QB competition. Ward will step into the starting gig for a team that went an NFL-worse 3-14 last season. Naturally, that comes with difficulties.

New GM Mike Borgonzi attempted to improve the situation around Ward this offseason without getting inpatient in free agency. The biggest additions occurred on the offensive line. Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler should upgrade Tennessee’s protection, an area that was a weakness in front of Will Levis last season.

Still, it’s fair to question the offensive line until we possess tangible proof that it’s improved. The performance of the protection unit is often reliant on chemistry, making it more difficult to predict than the output of a skill player. Furthermore, the Titans appear to have one of the worst wide receiver position rooms in the NFL.

Pro Football Focus recently took all that into account when ranking the situations best to worst that rookie quarterbacks find themselves in. Ward placed No. 3. Puzzlingly, Jaxson Dart (New York Giants) and Tyler Shough (New Orleans Saints) were the rookie signal-callers who placed ahead of Ward.

“Cam Ward’s immediate path to a starting role in Tennessee justifies his spot near the top of the list,” Dalton Wasserman wrote. “While the Titans’ receiving corps is thin, the team has invested heavily in the offensive line and boasts a capable backfield with Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. Calvin Ridley, who topped 1,000 yards with a 74.7 receiving grade in 2024, gives Ward at least one proven target to lean on as he adjusts to the pro level.

It’s difficult to understand how Dart and Shough are in better situations. Dart is technically No. 3 on the depth chart with more legitimate veteran backups in front of him (Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston) than the ones in Tennessee (Levis, Brandon Allen, Tim Boyle). The Giants also have a lame-duck staff with Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen on the hot seat.

Regarding Shough, the Saints should be preseason favorites to earn the No. 1 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. Veteran quarterback Derek Carr abruptly retired due to a chronic shoulder injury, placing Shough, Spencer Rattler, and Jake Haener in an uninspiring three-man position battle at QB.

Ward has to earn national respect with the Titans coming off a 3-14 season, but it’s difficult to understand how Shough and Dart are in better situations.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...worse-situation-than-jaxson-dart-tyler-shough

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Titans open phase three of the offseason program today

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The Titans can finally get some “live” reps this week.

Contrary to what some people on the internet would have you believe, the Tennessee Titans have not been able to run 7v7 or 11v11 drills until this week. You can bet they will be doing the actual football stuff now that it is legal. This means we will get our first look at Cam Ward in “team” situations over the next few days.

They have a session today that is not open to the media, but tomorrow’s session is, so we will get plenty of video on Wednesday. Jim Wyatt listed ten things he’ll be watching this week. There are obviously notes in there about both Ward and Will Levis. Brian Callahan has said it is an open competition at the quarterback position. We know that isn’t really true, but Levis will get plenty of reps. The Titans would love for him to show some real progression from now through the preseason so that they either feel good about him as a backup or that he increases his trade value.

The other big thing we will all be watching is the revamped offensive line. How does Dan Moore look at left tackle? How does JC Latham look at right tackle? We won’t get any real answers on that until we get to joint practices and the preseason, but it will be good for that group to start to gel throughout the offseason.

What are you watching for this week?

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...s-open-phase-three-of-offseason-program-today

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Is Titans DT T’Vondre Sweat among best NFL players under 25?

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Tennessee Titans DT T’Vondre Sweat was recently showered with praise in the national media

Tennessee Titans defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat enjoyed a quality rookie campaign in 2024. A polarizing selection by former general manager Ran Carthon in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Sweat swiftly quieted his pre-draft critics. The former Texas Longhorns standout recorded 51 tackles and one sack.

There are areas of Sweat’s game that require improvement in 2025. Limited pass-rush potential was a common negative in Sweat’s scouting report. Only recording one sack as a rookie strongly indicates there’s untapped production to explore on pass-rushing downs.

Sweat proved a lot of naysayers wrong, however. Stamina was a pre-draft question. Sweat showed up in fantastic shape, playing a sizable 699 snaps as a rookie, accounting for 66.13% of Tennessee’s defensive plays throughout the 2024 campaign.

Analytics and advanced stats appreciated Sweat’s rookie season even more than the statistics indicate. Pro Football Focus were huge champions of his. PFF awarded Sweat with an overall grade of 76.1, making him their 13th-highest graded interior defensive lineman (minimum snap count).

PFF recently revealed their “Top 25 players under 25” list. Sweat did not qualify for that honor, understandably sp. But as a follow-up, PFF announced 10 players who just missed out. Sweat makes an appearance.

“Tennessee’s 362-pound interior defender made an immediate impact as a rookie in 2024,” Zoltán Buday wrote. “Sweat earned a 76.1 overall PFF grade, ranking 14th among 118 qualifying interior defenders, while forming one of the league’s top interior trios alongside Jeffery Simmons and Sebastian Joseph-Day. The Texas product stood out even more against the run, posting a 75.0 run-defense grade, eighth best at the position. Sweat also earned a negative grade on just 11.5% of run plays, the eighth-lowest rate among all interior defenders, showcasing his consistency and reliability in the trenches.”

Defensive tackle is the best position on the Titans’ roster heading into 2025. Sweat should continue pairing with Jeffery Simmons and Sebastian Joseph-Day to form an effective interior trio. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson will build his defense around their game-wrecking abilities.

Carthon made a lot of mistakes last offseason. He overspent in free agency, leading to disastrous results. Carthon’s tenure in Tennessee was short and largely unmemorable, but his decision to go against the grain and draft Sweat at No. 38 overall could prove to pay massive dividends as new GM Mike Borgonzi continues trying to rebuild the roster with similar like-minded talents.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...tvondre-sweat-among-best-nfl-players-under-25

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Treylon Burks trade: Titans’ 3 potential partners

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Where will the Tennessee Titans trade Treylon Burks?

The Tennessee Titans made the no-brainer decision to decline Treylon Burks’ fifth-year option earlier this offseason. When asked about Burks in early May, head coach Brian Callahan confirmed the fourth-year wideout is still recovering from last year’s season-ending knee injury. Callahan offered an honest evaluation, claiming the first-round bust needs to be more consistent.

It’s difficult to imagine Burks making the 2025 roster. The Titans lack proven talent behind Calvin Ridley at wide receiver, but Burks was a catastrophic mistake made by two GMs ago. The Titans are far more invested in developing Elic Ayomanor, Xavier Restrepo, and Chimere Dike at receiver.

When Burks is healthy, the Titans should (and probably will) explore opportunities to trade him. All parties involved would benefit from a change of scenery. We’ve identified three potential landing spots for Burks via trade.

New York Jets​

The New York Jets are resetting the culture under head coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey. The franchise added Justin Fields to be a temporary solution at quarterback this season. While in the early stages of their roster rebuild, they should be willing to take low-risk chances on talented busts like Burks.

The Jets have Garrett Wilson and little else at receiver. Allen Lazard may still depart this offseason, and Malachi Corley and Arian Smith are unproven assets. Burks would compete for playing time in East Rutherford for a roster searching for more solutions in 2025 and beyond.

Las Vegas Raiders​

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll isn’t interested in rebuilding. That’s why the Raiders acquired Geno Smith at quarterback this offseason. They also drafted Ashton Jeanty at No. 6 overall, indicating they intend on being immediate contenders.

The Raiders lack talent at receiver. Brock Bowers is their top pass catcher, but they’re relying on second-round rookie Jack Bech to be the top wideout. Burks would fight for snaps with Tre Tucker and Jakobi Meyers on what projects to be a run-first offense.

Pittsburgh Steelers​

The Pittsburgh Steelers acquired DK Metcalf this offseason to pair with George Pickens. They then grew tired of Pickens’ antics and traded him to the Dallas Cowboys. The Steelers are back to square one, with Metcalf and no depth at receiver.

They signed former Titan Robert Woods, and also have Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson. The Steelers are still expected to sign Aaron Rodgers this offseason. Burks would potentially give Rodgers another option on the boundary.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2025/5/27/24437386/treylon-burks-trade-titans-3-potential-partners

 

[Tennessee Titans]

JC Latham cut a bunch of weight this offseason

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The Titans second-year tackle has put in the work this offseason.

We are about to enter the “everyone is in the best shape of their life” portion of the season. You hear that refrain over and over as teams start training camp. It can be tough to determine when it actually means something and when it is just noise.

With that being said, it sounds like Tennessee Titans tackle JC Latham has made a conscious effort this offseason to cut weight to help him move better and hold up better this season. Latham talked a lot about his weight and where it has been over the years on this week’s episode of Bussin with the Boys. Latham said he played around 360 last season and would like to be under 340 for this season.

The concern with cutting that much weight could be that he would sacrifice some strength, but that shouldn’t be a concern with Latham, who has been described as a “bear on two legs.”

If you haven’t listened to his interview on Bussin, you should do that. He gave a lot of good insight on the thought behind the weight he plays at, as well as some cool stories from high school, college, and throughout the draft process.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...m-cut-a-bunch-of-weight-this-offseason-titans

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Another Will Levis stat that highlights what Cam Ward has to do better

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Cam Ward has to be the anti-Will Levis for the Tennessee Titans in 2025

Everyone knows Will Levis struggled mightily for the Tennessee Titans in 2024. Poor quarterback play was the primary reason why the Titans earned the No. 1 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. That’s why Mike Borgonzi drafted Cam Ward to replace Levis.

Just about every Levis stat and advanced metric from last season highlights how poorly he performed. Take a look around social media and every statistical graph has Levis ranked at-or-near the bottom among starting quarterbacks.

Another Pro Football Focus stat was recently revealed that highlights one area Ward has to be better in.

1. Caleb Williams - 7.1%

Which QBs relied on checkdowns the least last season https://t.co/Kxy8rpou9l

— PFF (@PFF) May 23, 2025​

Levis had the sixth-lowest checkdown rate (3.8%) on third and fourth down in 2024, per PFF. Only Michael Penix Jr., Trevor Lawrence, Daniel Jones, Josh Allen, and Bryce Young had lower rates.

That’s not good company to keep.

Penix Jr. was a midseason rookie starter, Jones was released, the jury remains out on Young, and Lawrence was injured. Allen is an anomaly, with his superhero trait being his ability to extend the pocket and generate explosive plays.

There are other factors. The Titans were routinely behind the sticks on third and fourth downs, forcing Levis to take deeper developing shots. But Levis’ inability (or refusal) to play within the structure of Brian Callahan’s offense routinely got him in trouble.

For example, some of the quarterbacks with a higher percentage checkdown rate on money downs included effective starters such as Lamar Jackson, Geno Smith, and Bo Nix.

Ward must take notice. The Titans have gone to great lengths to improve their offensive line this offseason, signing Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler to lucrative contracts, moves that prompted JC Latham to return to his more natural right tackle position. Better protection could positively alter the environment for Tennessee’s starting quarterback in 2025, but Ward must still play within structure and take checkdowns when fruitful.

Ward projects as significantly more impactful than Levis. His ability to play on time and within structure at Miami was an underrated trait the Titans identified and appreciated during the pre-draft process. But like Allen, Ward prefers to keep his eyes downfield when extending the pocket.

It occasionally got Ward in trouble, with a 3.3% turnover-worthy-play-rate in 2024. Callahan won’t change Ward as a quarterback, but honing on his already present ability to make timely decisions will be emphasized.

Levis’ refusal to make risk-averse checkdown throws in 2024 is a cautionary tale.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...hat-highlights-what-cam-ward-has-to-do-better

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Should the Titans just keep Will Levis?

Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

Should the Tennessee Titans keep or trade Will Levis?

Rumors continue to swirl around Tennessee Titans in-limbo quarterback Will Levis. General manager Mike Borgonzi obviously drafted Cam Ward at No. 1 overall to be the new starting quarterback. That decision immediately placed Levis’ future in Tennessee in doubt.

OTAs continue in Nashville this week. Levis has understandably been peppered with questions about the team drafting Ward and the impact it has on his situation. Levis pulled no punches, admitting “it sucks.”

The Titans added two veteran quarterbacks in free agency, signing Brandon Allen and Tim Boyle. Their additions only led to more speculation about Levis’ future. Allen played under Brian Callahan in Cincinnati, indicating he, not Levis, would be a better backup quarterback for Ward to learn the offense from.

Callahan and Nick Holz have also been answering questions about Levis’ future. They’re saying all the right things to maintain secrecy. Callahan and Holz claim to be pleased with Levis’ offseason, saying he’s returned as a better, more mature quarterback this offseason.

The general expectation is that the Titans will eventually trade Levis this offseason. It’s fair to ask if that’s the right decision. Regardless of Levis’ lackluster 2024 season, a quarterback of his physical abilities is a bargain on a rookie contract signed through 2026.

The two remaining years on Levis’ rookie contract carry a base salary of under $1.2 million apiece. From a salary cap perspective, Levis’ scheduled charges are for $2.6 and $3 million, according to Over The Cap. That makes holding onto him a realistic possibility.

Again, regardless of his nightmare 2024 campaign, Levis is a more effective quarterback than Allen and Boyle. Allen is a mid 30s journeyman quarterback who is 2-8 in 10 career starts. Boyle has thrown five career touchdowns versus 13 interceptions.

Are the Titans willing to deal with the inevitable distraction? As long as Levis remains on the roster throughout OTAs and training camp, reporters will take advantage of every opportunity to ask questions about his standing with the team. That’s up to Callahan and Borgonzi to navigate, should they choose.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2025/6/3/24441718/should-the-titans-just-keep-will-levis

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Titans Reacts Survey: Did the Titans do enough for Cam Ward?

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The line is better, but are the weapons good enough?

The Titans absolutely had to fix two things this offseason. The first and most important was the quarterback position. They obviously addressed that by drafting Cam Ward. The second was the offensive line, which they upgraded by signing Dan Moore to play left tackle. That allows JC Latham to move to right tackle, the position he played in college. They also added Kevin Zeitler to play right guard. In theory, that group will be much better than last year.

The remaining question on offense is whether the Titans have enough weapons surrounding Ward. Their biggest acquisitions in free agency at receiver were Van Jefferson and Tyler Lockett. They waited until day three to address the position in the draft. Is that enough?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Tennessee Titans fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...-survey-did-the-titans-do-enough-for-cam-ward

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Titans want DT T’Vondre Sweat to rush the passer in 2025

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The Tennessee Titans are hoping sophomore DT T’Vondre Sweat is an improved pass rusher in 2025

Tennessee Titans defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat strung together a quality rookie season in 2024. The No. 38 overall selection in last year’s draft entered the league with plenty of detractors, but ultimately played an impressive brand of football in Year One.

Sweat concluded his rookie campaign with 51 tackles while featuring in all 17 regular-season games. Conditioning was a question mark heading into the season. It proved to be a non-factor, with Sweat totaling 699 snaps, roughly 66.13 percent of Tennessee’s total defensive plays. The former Texas standout also added one sack and one fumble recovery to his statistical totals.

If there’s an area of Sweat’s skill-set that would benefit from improvement as a sophomore, it’s his pass-rushing production. Sweat’s ability to consistently impact the pocket was another pre-draft question he faced. The results were somewhat inconsistent in 2024. While the second-round rookie showed a routine ability to defeat blocks and get into the backfield, Pro Football Focus credited him with just two sacks (they round up from half-sacks) and 23 pressures.

PFF generally liked Sweat’s tape. They awarded him an acceptable pass-rushing grade of 64.7, but he had a much-better run-stopping grade of 75.0, leading to an excellent 76.0 score overall.

“It’s more about the consistency of performance,” Callahan said. “We’d like to see more from the pass-rush game. He has the ability to rush [the passer] for a man his size. That’s part of the emphasis for him, to affect the quarterback more. He’s a tremendous run defender. Part of it is improving his details and improving his ability to help affect the quarterback. Those are the things we’re looking for progression wise from him. He can be a three-down player. He has great ability to push the pocket. We’re looking for more of that from him.”

Callahan on what points of emphasis the staff is targeting for the “supremely talented” T’Vondre Sweat in Year 2 pic.twitter.com/hiKOkJZFKj

— Buck Reising (@BuckReising) June 3, 2025​

The Titans finished tied for 30th in sacks last season with just 32 QB takedowns. The pass-rush didn’t necessarily improve on paper either. Femi Oladejo, Dre’Mont Jones, and Lorenzo Carter were the offseason additions, but the Titans also subtracted 2024 sack leader Harold Landry III. If Tennessee’s pass-rush is going to be even league-average in 2025, it’ll require more production from Sweat.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...t-dt-tvondre-sweat-to-rush-the-passer-in-2025

 

[Tennessee Titans]

3 questions about PFF’s projected 2025 Tennessee Titans starting lineup

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How accurate is PFF’s projected 2025 Titans lineup?

Pro Football Focus recently released their roster rankings and projected starting lineups for all 32 teams. The Tennessee Titans rank 31st. That’s a separate conversation, but the Titans will have to earn back respect after finishing a league-worst 3-14 in 2024. Even drafting Cam Ward at No. 1 overall didn’t prevent the roster ranking from being second-last.

Having analyzed the projected lineup, we’ve identified three questions.

Van Jefferson, WR​

PFF has Van Jefferson as a starting wide receiver next to Calvin Ridley and Tyler Lockett. Ridley and Lockett will undeniably be starters as the “X” and “slot” receivers respectively. There’s a little more doubt regarding Jefferson.

The Titans have been impressed with Jefferson at OTAs, but they also drafted Elic Ayomanor in Chimere Dike in April. Ayomanor appears to possess the body type and skill set required to compete for that third receiver spot. Jefferson, who has posted lackluster numbers in recent years, shouldn’t be handed a starting gig.

Dre’Mont Jones, EDGE​

Dre’Mont Jones was Mike Borgonzi’s notable veteran addition at EDGE in free agency. He signed a one-year contract with incentives. The Titans possess a lot of questions at the pass-rushing position, but Arden Key is likely the No. 1 player on that subsection of the depth chart. Key has the upper hand with continuity in Dennard Wilson’s defense.

How quickly can rookie Femi Oladejo play his way into the lineup? Oladejo is the only Titans EDGE on the roster with a long-term commitment from Borgonzi. Key, Jones, and Lorenzo Carter are all on expiring deals. The former UCLA rusher should push Jones for a base defense role.

Otis Reese IV, LB​

The Titans signed veteran linebacker Cody Barton to play a sizable role on defense this season. Barton is guaranteed to start at off-ball linebacker. Who plays opposite him is a question with three possibilities.

Sophomore defenders Cedric Gray and James Williams are considered the favorites. PFF surprisingly has Otis Reese IV listed as the starter. Reese IV has played well in small doses, but the Titans seemingly have more invested in developing Gray and/or Williams.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...ojected-2025-tennessee-titans-starting-lineup

 

[Tennessee Titans]

What could a Roger McCreary contract extension look like?

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Will the Tennessee Titans attempt to sign Roger McCreary to a contract extension?

The Tennessee Titans will report for a three-day mandatory minicamp this week. It represents the final time Brian Callahan’s squad will be together prior to training camp. With a near two-month summer break on the horizon, Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi could consider signing players on expiring contracts to extensions prior to camp marking its arrival.

Unlike this current offseason, the Titans have a handful of young, intriguing talents scheduled for free agency next summer. That list includes cornerback Roger McCreary, tight end Chig Okonkwo, and safety Amani Hooker, to name a few. The Titans also signed a bunch of veterans to one-year contracts, meaning the likes of Van Jefferson, Kevin Zeitler, Tyler Lockett, and Dre’Mont Jones are also slated for free agency in 2026. In-house talents Amani Hooker and Arden Key are also on this list.

The Titans could potentially explore contract extensions with several of these players. McCreary sticks out as a potential front-runner. The No. 35 overall selection (made by Jon Robinson) in the 2022 NFL Draft has been a consistent standout in the secondary.

Partially due to injury, the Titans initially used McCreary both as a boundary corner and nickel defender in 2022. The former Auburn Tigers standout has since settled in really nice as the team’s slot cornerback. Of McCreary’s 652 defensive snaps played in 2024, 538 of them occurred as a nickel, per Pro Football Focus.

McCreary has also been healthy. Through three completed campaigns, he’s averaged a sizable 917 snaps per season (though this past year was a career-low 652). Terrific availability is something Borgonzi takes into account in free agency after signing workhorses like Cody Barton, Xavier Woods, and Dan Moore Jr.

Knowing that McCreary is a nickel cornerback could also help the Titans dictate his value should they pursue an extension. Earlier this offseason, the Chicago Bears extended their slot cornerback Kyler Gordon by signing him to a three-year, $40 million deal. That contract could serve as the framework for negotiations between the Titans and McCreary.

Gordon was selected four picks (No. 39) after McCreary in 2022. It’s incredibly easy to compare their statistics. McCreary has 220 career tackles compared to Gordon’s 207, and 15 passes deflected versus 17. They’ve both appeared in more than 40 regular-season games, but fewer than 50.

If the Titans want to extend McCreary this offseason, their contract offer probably has to exceed $12 million per year (with $15 million representing the ceiling). McCreary is slated to earn an underpaid base salary of $3.6 million in the final season of his rookie deal, per Spotrac.

Does Borgonzi believe McCreary is worth $12-plus million on a multi-year deal? It’s worth noting the Titans selected cornerback Marcus Harris in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The coaching staff is allegedly sneaky-high on Harris, who projects as a nickel at the next level. Perhaps they’re lining up a cheaper in-house replacement?

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...a-roger-mccreary-contract-extension-look-like

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Cam Ward “solid” in first day of Titans minicamp

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More good reports on the #1 overall pick.

Today, the Tennessee Titans were on the field for their first day of minicamp. This will be the most extensive work the whole team gets before training camp opens next month. As I have said multiple times, we should all temper our expectations for the reports that come out during this period. We have seen far too many times where the reports are all glowing in these types of practices, only to see the wheels come off when the games start.

With that being said, the reports on Cam Ward continue to be really good. Paul Kuharsky called Ward’s practice “solid:”

Cam Ward was solid today at opening day of minicamp. Got bulk of reps. Lots of good. Connections included several with Xavier Restrepo. Was picked by Cody Barton in 7-on-7 on mid-range throw to middle left for Van Jefferson. #Titans

— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) June 10, 2025​

Solid may not sound glowing, but that is high praise coming from Kuharsky.

Buck Reising mentioned that Elic Ayomanor is becoming one of his favorite players to watch:

Titans practice observations:

Elic Ayomanor is slowly becoming one of my favorite players to watch practice. Couple of nice receptions down the right sideline one really nice deep passes from first Ward then Levis

Speaking of Ward, funny to watch him and Jeff Simmons jawing at…

— Buck Reising (@BuckReising) June 10, 2025​

Ayomanor is going to have an opportunity to see reps early in this season. He was widely regarded as a really good pick for the Titans in the fourth round.

Buck also said that Gunnar Helm is going to give all of the tight ends on the roster a run for their money.

Kevin Zeitler reportedly got his first work of the offseason. They have really eased the veteran guard in through the offseason. He’s a pro. He’ll be ready when the bullets are live.

Jeffery Simmons reported to camp 20 pounds lighter than last year:

.@GrindSimmons94 on his decision to work out on own up until this point. He’s back for @Titans minicamp and said he’s 20 pounds lighter pic.twitter.com/HgfTncr5bX

— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) June 10, 2025​

Brian Callahan said before practice that they want to see more sacks from Big Jeff this season.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2025/6/10/24446871/cam-ward-solid-in-first-day-titans-minicamp

 

[Tennessee Titans]

Titans HC Brian Callahan challenges L’Jarius Sneed

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The Titans want more from L’Jarius Sneed

The Tennessee Titans began mandatory minicamp on Tuesday. Head coach Brian Callahan met with local reporters before the first of three practices. Arguably the most interesting comments made by Callahan were about cornerback L’Jarius Sneed.

Sneed won’t practice during the three-day camp. It represents the continuation of his non-involvement due to an injury dating back to the voluntary portions of the offseason. Titans fans should be concerned.

The Titans acquired Sneed from the Kansas City Chiefs last offseason in exchange for a third-round selection. They then signed him to an extension worth more than $75 million. The Titans believed they were getting a shutdown cornerback. That projection hasn’t come to fruition.

Sneed appeared in five games for the Titans before suffering a quad strain injury in mid October. The setback proved to be peculiar and far more challenging than first realized. Sneed never returned from that injury, and was placed on season-ending IR in late November.

It’s incredibly concerning that Sneed is still dealing with the after-affects of that injury approximately eight months later. He’s also been dealing with an off-field legal situation. It’s been a bad offseason for Sneed.

Callahan didn’t necessarily pull punches when asked about Sneed during Tuesday’s pre-practice presser. Callahan admitted the Titans are still waiting for Sneed to show them the caliber of player he’s been.

.@Titans HC Brian Callahan: Waiting for L'Jarius Sneed to show us he's the player he's been. He has a great track record in league, but we want to see it here as well

— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) June 10, 2025​

Sneed wasn’t his elite self in five appearances for the Titans in 2024. Pro Football Focus awarded him with a brutal 36.8 grade in coverage. He allowed nine receptions in 168 coverage snaps.

The Titans are heavily invested in Sneed. All parties involved are frustrated and disappointed that his recovery from what appeared to be a non-serious injury has reached the eight-month mark (roughly). Dennard Wilson’s defense desperately needs Sneed to rediscover his previous form.

The Sneed trade is inching towards a disastrous outcome. Thanks, Ran Carthon.

Source: https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2...ns-hc-brian-callahan-challenges-ljarius-sneed