The Tennessee Titans' 2024 season has started on a troubling note, as they find themselves with a 0-2 record after a narrow 24-17 defeat to the New York Jets in Week 2. This early-season stumble has put the team on the back foot, with significant scrutiny falling on quarterback Will Levis, whose risk-taking tendencies have been both a bane and a boon throughout his young professional career.
Levis, who was the 33rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has displayed a penchant for high-stakes plays. This approach came under intense criticism following a crucial mistake against the Jets. In a pivotal moment, Levis threw a pass to Tyjae Spears, which resulted in a fumble that the Jets quickly capitalized on. Offensive coordinator Callahan minced no words during his postgame press conference, labeling the decision as "dumb."
Reflecting on the incident, Levis conveyed a sense of accountability and composure. "He told us straight off, he's not a yeller and screamer, but he can be and there's certain situations that allow for that, and that definitely was one of those situations," Levis said. "I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching." This mature response underscores his commitment to personal growth and team improvement. Furthermore, Levis admitted, "I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me. I know it's an emotional response that we all have after things like that."
Levis' recognition of his need for better decision-making comes as he battles to shed a reputation for recklessness that followed him from his college career into the NFL. During his tenure in college, Levis was known for taking risks, a tendency that analysts believe contributed to his slide in the draft. "I think a lot of people, when they hear gunslinger, they think about recklessness. I definitely feel like I was a little too reckless in my college career and tried to make some throws that I would want to take back," Levis admitted. "I changed that mentality a bit in my play last year. Just realizing at the level that I was playing at where I had to be that much more careful with the ball."
Yet, despite claiming to have adjusted his gunslinging attitude, Levis' early-season stats tell a different story. He has already thrown three interceptions and lost two fumbles in the first two games of the season. These missteps have not only cost the team crucial games but also ignited a wave of criticism from analysts and fans alike.
The Titans, aiming to make a playoff run this season, have no margin for error. "The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run," affirmed Levis. To achieve this, the Titans will need a much more disciplined and effective performance from their quarterback. However, Levis' acknowledgment of his mistakes and willingness to adapt is a positive sign for the team. "We were right back to it, and he had confidence in me on the next play taking that shot. That was cool to feel, coming back on the field after that turnover, even though we had another one after that. I don't have any problem with how he handled himself," Levis said, underscoring the mutual respect and constructive dynamic between him and Callahan.
This coming Sunday, the Titans will face the Green Bay Packers, who will be without their starting quarterback, Jordan Love. Instead, Malik Willis will step in due to Love's injury. This presents a crucial opportunity for Levis and the Titans to turn their season around and get their first win on the board.
Levis' journey in the NFL is still in its early stages, and while the initial signs have been tumultuous, his openness to coaching and self-reflection suggests a player ready to evolve. As the season progresses, the Titans and their fans will be hoping that this young quarterback can strike the right balance between bold play and calculated decision-making, paving the way for a successful campaign.