The Tennessee Titans are navigating a tough start to the 2024 NFL season, with a 0-2 record after falling to the New York Jets, 24-17, in Week 2. The game encapsulated the struggles and growing pains the team faces, particularly through the lens of young quarterback Will Levis.
A Costly Error
One of the defining moments came when Levis made an ill-fated pass to Tyjae Spears, resulting in a game-changing fumble. The Jets capitalized on the turnover, further solidifying their win. This specific play came under scrutiny from Offensive Coordinator Callahan, who did not mince words in his postgame press conference, labeling the decision as "dumb."
Levis, who has a known reputation for a risk-taking approach, openly expressed his agreement with Callahan's critique. "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. "I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching."
Admitting Shortcomings
Levis' ability to reflect candidly on his performance is notable. "I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me," Levis 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."
Such moments of self-reflection hint at a maturity within Levis, even amid the early season turbulence. The young quarterback has already thrown three interceptions and fumbled twice in the first two games. Analysts argue that his propensity for risk led to his significant drop in the draft, ultimately being picked 33rd overall in 2023.
Learning from the Past
This label of "recklessness" is one Levis is acutely aware of. Reflecting on his college career, he noted, "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. 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."
The Road Ahead
Levis' response to criticism and his self-awareness suggest he possesses the potential to grow despite early challenges. Still, the Titans have clear-cut goals for this season. "The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run," Levis stated with determination.
However, the immediate future remains steep. Upcoming, the Titans are set to host the Green Bay Packers. The Packers will be without their starting quarterback Jordan Love, who will be replaced by Malik Willis due to injury. This presents a potentially advantageous scenario for Tennessee to secure a much-needed victory and turn their season around.
While the start has been rocky, there's still ample time for the Titans and Levis to right the ship. The team's success will rely significantly on Levis' ability to balance his natural risk-taking with calculated decision-making. How he and the Titans respond in the coming weeks will be critical as they pursue their playoff aspirations.