The Tennessee Titans have stumbled out of the gate in the 2024 NFL season, falling to 0-2 following a 24-17 defeat to the New York Jets in Week 2. The game highlighted some familiar issues for the Titans, particularly surrounding their young quarterback, Will Levis.
A Troubling Trend
Levis, who has been known for his risk-taking approach, committed a critical mistake against the Jets. He threw a pass to Tyjae Spears that ended in a fumble, allowing the Jets to capitalize on the error. The mood in the Titans' camp was notably tense after the game, with offensive coordinator Callahan not holding back in his criticism of Levis' decision-making, labeling it as "dumb."
"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, reflecting on the critique. "I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching."
Admitting Mistakes
Levis' acknowledgment of his errors doesn't stop with a single game. Through the first two games, he has recorded three interceptions and two fumbles, showing a pattern of recklessness that has haunted him since his college days. Analysts believe this attribute was a key reason he dropped to the 33rd overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Despite these setbacks, Levis shows a mature side by confronting his issues head-on. "I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me," he revealed. "I know it's an emotional response that we all have after things like that. 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."
A Career of Contrition
Levis' history of risky play isn’t new. During his college career, he developed a reputation for making aggressive, sometimes ill-advised throws. "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. I was proud of how I was able to protect it a little more than I did in my college years."
Looking for Redemption
As Levis and the Titans aim to turn their season around, the immediate task at hand is a home game against the Green Bay Packers. Fortunately for Tennessee, the Packers will be without their starting quarterback Jordan Love, who is sidelined with an injury. Malik Willis will step in as the starter.
The Titans’ path to redemption aligns with their broader ambitions for the season. "The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run," Levis stated confidently. To realize this, the quarterback will need to balance his innate aggressive style with more judicious play.
Signs of Growth
Despite the early-season struggles, Levis' responses to criticisms and his willingness to reflect on his performances indicate a level of maturity that might bode well for his future. His coach's tough love and his personal accountability could be crucial factors as the Titans attempt to navigate a challenging season.
In the crucible of professional football, it often takes more than talent to succeed. A player’s ability to learn from mistakes and adapt is equally important. Will Levis seems to understand this, which could ultimately be the key to both his own success and that of his team. As the Titans prepare to face the Packers, all eyes will be on Levis to see if he can curb his recklessness and lead Tennessee towards their playoff aspirations.