The Tennessee Titans began a new chapter by selecting quarterback Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. After trading away multiple assets to secure the top spot, Tennessee made it clear: Ward is their quarterback of the future.
Ward’s story is impressive. A former zero-star recruit, he began his college career at Incarnate Word, made a name for himself at Washington State, and finished strong at Miami.
In his final college season, he threw for over 4,300 yards and 39 touchdowns, earning All-American honors and winning the Davey O’Brien and Manning Awards. His dual-threat ability and poise under pressure quickly made him a top prospect.
Despite interest from teams like the Giants and Jets hoping to trade up, the Titans stuck with their pick. With Will Levis sidelined for the season due to shoulder surgery, Ward steps in as the undisputed starter.
The rookie didn’t waste time trying to connect with his receivers. Last week, he spoke highly of wideout Treylon Burks, calling him “one of our best targets” and praising his speed for his size. That excitement, however, was short-lived.
Titans part ways with Burks after injury
Just days after Ward’s comments, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Tennessee had waived Burks following a fractured collarbone suffered during practice. It’s a tough blow for the rookie QB, and a clear sign the Titans are moving on.
Burks was a first-round pick in 2022, taken to replace A.J. Brown after his trade to the Eagles. Unfortunately, Burks never delivered on that promise. Over three injury-riddled seasons, he played in just 27 games, logging 53 catches for 699 yards and one touchdown. Given those underwhelming numbers, his release isn’t a complete surprise, but it does sting, especially considering what the Titans gave up to get him.
The silver lining for Ward is that the Titans made other moves to bolster the receiving corps. This offseason, they signed veterans Tyler Lockett and Van Jefferson to one-year deals, offering experience and route-running precision.
They also added Stanford standout Elic Ayomanor in the fourth round, a physical receiver with reliable hands who could develop into a trusted option.
To support Ward further, Tennessee also reinforced its offensive line, adding veterans like Kevin Zeitler and Dan Moore Jr. in free agency. With a revamped offense and a new coaching staff led by Brian Callahan, the Titans are clearly all-in on building around Ward.
The loss of Burks is unfortunate, but Ward’s potential, and the team’s aggressive offseason, gives fans reason to stay optimistic.
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