NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In a stunning turn of events that has caught Titans fans and NFL analysts off guard, new head coach Brian Callahan has confirmed that Cam Ward, the team’s No. 1 overall pick out of Miami, is not yet guaranteed the starting quarterback job for the 2025 season. Despite Tennessee’s glaring 3-14 record last season and high expectations surrounding Ward, Callahan is preaching patience and process.
Ward, who dazzled during his collegiate run at Miami with a dynamic dual-threat presence, entered the NFL as one of the most hyped rookie quarterbacks in recent memory. But Coach Callahan isn’t letting the hype dictate roster decisions just yet.
“There’s a plan in place for all the quarterbacks,” Callahan said on Wednesday during the Titans’ offseason program. “Right now, we don’t have a ‘QB1.’ Who goes first today might be different tomorrow.”
The cautious approach is part of what Callahan calls a “deliberate build,” designed to ensure every quarterback on the roster gets an equal shot to prove themselves — including veteran Brandon Allen, who took the first snap in a critical drill this week. Allen, who previously worked with Callahan in Cincinnati, has the trust of the coaching staff and is expected to serve as a mentor figure in the quarterback room.
As for Cam Ward, the 6-foot-2 phenom is staying grounded.
“I’m on Coach Callahan’s timeline,” Ward said. “It’s not my decision. But I know there’s a lot I have to work on. I’ve got a lot of processing to do to play at this level, and I’m taking it day by day.”
During Wednesday’s session, Ward flashed the arm talent that made him a top pick, connecting deep with wide receivers Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor on crisp throws that excited onlookers. Still, not everything was smooth — a botched snap reminded everyone he’s still adjusting to the NFL pace.
Notably, veteran center Lloyd Cushenberry, recovering from an Achilles injury that ended his 2024 season after just eight games, was not active in drills. That leaves Ward to work with a mix of backup linemen as he acclimates to pro-level pass protection and play-calling.
Ward is also intensely focused on the mental side of the game.
“When I’m not in a drill, I’m watching formations, listening to play calls, studying motion,” Ward said. “I’m getting better fast — but it’s all about the long-term goal.”
Coach Callahan’s measured tone may frustrate fans hungry for a turnaround, but insiders say it’s a calculated move aimed at protecting Ward from early burnout and building a more competitive quarterback culture inside the locker room.
As the Titans prepare for their season opener on Sept. 7 at Denver, all eyes remain on whether Callahan will ultimately unleash his top pick — or continue playing the long game.
One thing is clear: Cam Ward may be the future, but Brian Callahan is controlling the present.
