Tennessee Titans’ Bold Move: Trading Up for QB Will Levis Pays Off as He Takes Starting Role.
Nearly a year has passed since Tennessee Titans’ general manager Ran Carthon made a bold move, trading up to the 33rd pick in the draft to secure quarterback Will Levis. This decision raised eyebrows, given the presence of established starter Ryan Tannehill and the recent selection of Malik Willis in the third round the previous year. However, the Titans saw enough potential in Levis to justify parting with the 41st and 72nd picks, along with a 2024 third-rounder, in exchange for the 33rd pick and Tyjae Spears at No. 81. Now, Levis finds himself at the helm of the Titans’ offense, with Carthon actively shaping the roster around him.
Bringing in new coach Brian Callahan marked the initial step in this strategic reconfiguration. Callahan’s impressive tenure as the Cincinnati Bengals’ offensive coordinator, coupled with his track record of nurturing quarterbacks like Peyton Manning and Joe Burrow, bodes well for Levis’ development. During his introductory press conference in January, Callahan expressed excitement about Levis’ “special physical talents” and his eagerness to refine them further.
With Levis firmly in place as the Titans’ starting quarterback, the team’s management set out to enhance the supporting cast to maximize his potential in his sophomore year. The acquisition of former Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Calvin Ridley on a lucrative four-year, $92 million contract stands as a testament to this commitment. Ridley’s stellar performance, evidenced by four 100-yard receiving games last season, made him a coveted free agent and the top-rated receiver in the market. Carthon highlighted Ridley’s ability to create separation, track the ball, and utilize his speed as key traits that appealed to the Titans.
Additionally, the Titans bolstered their backfield by signing former Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard to a three-year deal worth $24 million. Coming off consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons, Pollard brings versatility and explosiveness to the Titans’ ground game. Paired with Spears, who displayed promise as a rookie sharing snaps with Derrick Henry last season, Pollard forms a formidable one-two punch capable of challenging defenses both in the air and on the ground.
As the Titans gear up for the upcoming season, the synergy between Levis, Ridley, Pollard, and Spears signals an exciting chapter in the team’s quest for success. With a revamped roster and a promising young quarterback at the helm, the Titans are poised to make waves in the league.