Titans coach Brian Callahan blasts the offense and rookie QB Cam Ward after a disastrous August 2025 practice. Read about the meltdown and defensive bright spots.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Things got heated in Nashville on Monday. After what sources are calling the 'worst practice of the summer,' new head coach Brian Callahan unleashed a verbal tirade on his offense, with rookie quarterback Cam Ward reportedly bearing the brunt of the frustration. The message was clear: the sloppy execution and lack of cohesion are unacceptable, especially with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers waiting just around the corner.
It's not just on the rookie. Reports indicate broader issues with execution and cohesion plagued the entire offensive unit.
The breaking point came Sunday, but the fallout dominated Monday's conversation. Coach Callahan's profanity-laced message was a wake-up call for an offense that looked completely out of sync. While rookie Cam Ward is an easy target, insiders stress this isn't a 'Cam Ward problem.' It's a unit-wide failure of execution. Dropped passes, missed assignments, and a general lack of rhythm created the perfect storm for a frustrating day. The pressure is now squarely on the offensive coaching staff to simplify, correct, and get this group ready to face a real opponent.
It wasn't all bad news at camp. As the offense struggled, the defense feasted. Linebacker Cody Barton has been a revelation, flying around the field and looking like a true defensive anchor. He's been a particular nightmare for the rookie QB, snagging multiple interceptions against Ward in recent sessions. Barton's stellar play is a huge positive, but it also highlights the offense's current woes. The secondary, however, remains a question mark. With a key starter on the PUP list, there's growing speculation that GM Ran Carthon might be working the phones to bring in reinforcements at cornerback.
In a move that underscores the constant evaluation process of training camp, the Titans shuffled the bottom of their defensive line depth chart on Monday. The team signed defensive tackle Josiah Bronson and waived Devonte O'Malley. Bronson, a journeyman who has had stints with several NFL clubs, gets a fresh opportunity to prove he belongs. It's a minor move in the grand scheme, but it's a reminder that every single roster spot is being contested as the coaching staff looks for the right combination of players.
All eyes now turn to Saturday's preseason opener against the Buccaneers. Will Callahan's verbal lashing light a fire under the offense? Can Cam Ward and his teammates bounce back and show some semblance of the high-powered attack fans are hoping for? One sloppy week of practice doesn't define a season, but their response on August 9 will tell us a lot about the character and resilience of this new-look Titans team.
