The Tennessee Titans didn’t hesitate when they held the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft-and now, their new general manager Mike Borgonzi is drawing a bold comparison that’s turning heads.
Borgonzi, speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, likened rookie quarterback Cameron Ward to Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes. The comparison carries extra weight coming from Borgonzi, who was part of the Chiefs’ front office when they drafted Mahomes back in 2017.
“There were things we saw in Patrick that I now see in Cam,” Borgonzi said.
“His arm talent immediately jumps out, but it’s also the instincts, the calmness under pressure, and the ability to extend plays. He impressed us not just as a player, but as a person and leader.”
Ward, who starred for the Miami Hurricanes in 2024, posted 4,313 passing yards and accounted for 43 total touchdowns while throwing just seven interceptions. Known for his strong arm and mobility, he was long considered the top quarterback prospect in the draft, and Tennessee’s top brass didn’t overthink the decision.
A different draft experience for Borgonzi
Borgonzi also reflected on how different this draft process was from his time in Kansas City. Back in 2017, the Chiefs had to play it close to the chest, eventually trading up from the 27th pick to No. 10 to grab Mahomes.
“We had to keep everything under wraps,” he recalled.
“We didn’t attend the Pro Day, didn’t do a private workout. We didn’t want anyone catching on that we were targeting Patrick.”
That level of secrecy wasn’t necessary this year. After a difficult 2024 campaign, the Titans earned the first overall pick, giving them full control over the board. There was no need for smokescreens or trade negotiations. Borgonzi and his team zeroed in on Ward early and never looked back.
The selection of Ward signals a new era for the Titans, and the pressure will be on the young quarterback to deliver. But Borgonzi believes Ward has what it takes-not just to start-but to thrive.
“If you look at the total package-his football IQ, leadership, and natural ability-it’s special,” Borgonzi said.
“It reminded me of what we saw years ago with Patrick.”
Only time will tell if Ward can live up to the lofty expectations. But with full support from the front office and a skill set that’s already drawing elite comparisons, he’s poised to lead Tennessee into its next chapter.
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