Drafting a quarterback in the NFL is always a gamble, but the Tennessee Titans are betting big on Cam Ward-and they’re following a familiar blueprint. Eight years ago, the Kansas City Chiefs took a chance on Patrick Mahomes, and now the Titans hope they’ve found their own future superstar.
From Ryan Leaf to Trey Lance, history is filled with top prospects who never lived up to expectations. Fortunately for the Titans, they have a key advantage: General Manager Mike Borgonzi, one of the architects behind Mahomes’ selection in 2017.
In a recent interview on The Rich Eisen Show, Borgonzi acknowledged the differences between the two quarterbacks but also highlighted striking similarities in their skill sets-and the draft process that led each to the NFL.
Ward vs. Mahomes: What’s the connection?
Borgonzi first pointed out the differences. When the Chiefs drafted Mahomes, they already had veteran Alex Smith, who played a crucial role in his development. Additionally, while Tennessee had the first pick overall, Kansas City had to trade up from 27th to 10th overall to secure the Texas Tech standout.
However, the criteria used to evaluate Ward mirrored those that guided the Chiefs’ selection of Mahomes. “Some of the traits we saw in Pat-Cam has them, too. His arm talent really stands out,” Borgonzi explained.
“He has natural instincts, poise in the pocket, and the ability to create outside of it,” he added. “When we met Cam, we were genuinely impressed-not just by his football IQ, but by his leadership qualities.”
An unexpected Mahomes connection
Beyond their playing styles, Ward and Mahomes share a significant coaching connection-Eric Morris.
Morris served as Texas Tech’s offensive coordinator when Mahomes played there from 2014 to 2016. Later, as head coach at Incarnate Word, he helped develop Ward when the quarterback arrived in 2020. Morris then brought Ward to Washington State in 2022, continuing to refine his skills.
The Titans are fully invested in Ward’s potential. If the rookie possesses even a fraction of Mahomes’ talent, Tennessee may find itself competing for a Super Bowl in the coming years-all thanks to one of the top prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft.
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