Will Levis did not anticipate being in this situation a year back. After a season that didn’t meet his and the Titans’ expectations, he now finds himself in a struggle for the starting quarterback position against Cam Ward, the first overall pick.
In a professional manner, Levis acknowledged that his situation is less than ideal:
“Anyone who’s ever been in my situation would agree that it sucks,” he stated.
“I’m just trying to do the best I can to not let it affect me and just be the same person every day at the facility and be there for my teammates in any way I can, and simply strive for improvement daily.”
Despite his disappointment, Levis remains on good terms with Ward, who has praised him as a teammate. Ward commented on their relationship:
“He was one of the first to come up to me in the locker room, eager to compete and ready to work. It’s been invigorating to collaborate with someone who’s seen real NFL action. It’s beneficial to gain insight from him.”
Levis’s current challenges stem largely from his struggle to protect the ball, which contributed to his drop to the second round in the 2023 draft. While he managed to limit his interceptions to just four in nine games during his rookie season, he regressed last year, throwing 12 interceptions in 12 games as the Titans faced a tumultuous 3-14 season.
Instead of succumbing to disappointment, Levis diligently worked on his skills this offseason, devoting considerable time to enhancing his mechanics with quarterback advisor Jordan Palmer.
“I have noticed significant progress, absolutely,” asserted Titans coach Brian Callahan. “His decision to put in the effort with Jordan was incredibly advantageous. I’ve got immense respect for Jordan and find that his program works effectively. His offseason work has manifested improvements in his footwork and ball control, and I am genuinely pleased with his dedication to the team.”
Regarding the statements about his situation, it’s clear that Levis is in a less than favorable position. However, many quarterbacks have faced graver circumstances—such as Steve Young, who was forced to sit behind Hall of Famer Joe Montana for four years before finally seizing the starting job for the 49ers at age 30.
Young expressed dissatisfaction about being behind Montana but underwent a mindset transformation after a conversation with author Stephen Covey, who helped him realize the benefits of learning alongside a legendary quarterback and coach. He later enjoyed a Hall of Fame career, highlighted by a Super Bowl victory where he set a record with six touchdown passes.
Whether Levis can carve out a similar path remains to be seen.
