Tennessee Titans Rookie QB Cam Ward Shows Promise in Preseason Debut

Tennessee Titans No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward had a solid first preseason game despite the team’s 29-7 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday. The rookie quarterback displayed excellent chemistry with receiver Calvin Ridley, giving fans plenty to be encouraged about.

After reviewing the game tape, Titans head coach Brian Callahan praised Ward’s performance but made it clear there’s still work to do.

“Cam certainly hasn’t arrived yet,” Callahan said Sunday via the team’s official website. “We have a lot of things we’re still working on. I thought it was a good start for him, encouraging. It was productive, but there’s a couple of things we’re going to keep grinding on. Still working on getting the ball out fast, still working on the timing of it. … There’s plenty of things we’re still working on with Cam.”

Ward’s debut started slow with two incompletions and a quick three-and-out. However, on his next drive, he connected with Ridley three times for big gains as the Titans moved 75 yards over 11 plays, capped by a Tony Pollard 1-yard touchdown run.

In just two drives, Ward completed 5 of 8 passes for 67 yards and posted an impressive 89.1 passer rating.

The rookie showcased a strong arm and the ability to move the ball all over the field. He also demonstrated solid accuracy and promising decision-making, quickly moving through his reads and finding multiple receivers.

That said, there are areas for improvement. Ward’s footwork in the pocket needs refinement — he threw off his back foot several times — and he narrowly avoided an interception by trying to force a pass into a tight window that wasn’t there.

Overall, the Titans can feel good about Ward’s composure and potential. The moment did not appear too big for the franchise’s new face.

Ward will get more chances to build on this momentum as the Titans prepare for joint practices with the Atlanta Falcons this week ahead of their second preseason game on Friday.