Titans' Brian Callahan confirms rookie QB Cam Ward and starters will play the full 2024 preseason. Get the details on this bold strategy for the young team.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Tennessee Titans are wasting no time ushering in a new era. In a decisive move, Head Coach Brian Callahan announced Wednesday that the team's starters, led by No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward, will see action in all three preseason games. Forget the bubble wrap and cautious approach of years past; the Titans are putting their young talent on the field to get them battle-tested for the regular season.
'Our starters are going to play... we're going to let Cam play. So he's going to be on the field playing football.' - Head Coach Brian Callahan
During his morning press conference, Coach Callahan laid out a clear and aggressive preseason strategy: get the starters, especially his rookie quarterback, as many valuable live-game reps as possible. With Will Levis's unfortunate season-ending shoulder surgery, the keys to the kingdom were handed to Cam Ward, and the coaching staff is ensuring he's fully prepared to drive. 'We're going to let Cam play,' Callahan stated, confirming Ward will start the preseason opener against Tampa Bay and play at least one or two series. The philosophy is simple: for a young roster, there's no substitute for game speed, and the Titans are embracing the grind.
As if on cue, Ward spent Wednesday's practice proving why the coaching staff has so much faith in him. With his cousin, veteran NFL safety Quandre Diggs, watching from the sidelines, Ward put on a clinic. He showcased the elite arm talent and command of the offense that made him the top pick, further cementing his status as QB1. The performance wasn't just for show; it was a statement that he's ready to lead this team, validating the decision to throw him into the fire this preseason.
The Titans' decision is already making waves around the league. The NFL's official news roundup highlighted the move, framing it as a crucial developmental step for both Ward and the rebuilding franchise. It's a reminder of the expectations surrounding the former Miami star, who lit up college football with 4,313 passing yards and 39 touchdowns last season. By playing their starters, the Titans are sending a message that they are serious about accelerating their timeline and competing now.
All eyes now turn to Thursday's joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which will be the first real test against another team. This preseason is no longer just a tune-up; it's the official start of the Cam Ward era in Tennessee. For a young team looking to forge a new identity, every snap counts, and it's clear Coach Callahan intends to make the most of every single one.
