Titans quarterback Cam Ward expressed disappointment over the team’s 23-10 loss to the Jets on Sunday, a sentiment likely shared by many regarding their opening game under head coach Robert Saleh.
As the top overall pick in the 2025 draft enters his second NFL season, some observers may feel more than mere disappointment regarding his current standing. Ward’s most notable plays occurred during a late drive while trailing significantly, prompting Saleh to address a Monday press conference whether the quarterback is a larger work in progress than the staff initially anticipated upon arriving in Tennessee.
Saleh highlighted that Ward has operated under seven different offensive coordinators over the past seven years, noting that the organization is currently “trying to build a foundation” to facilitate his necessary improvements.
“His development will unfold throughout the year,” Saleh stated. “His growth is going to happen next year and the year after. This young man is at the baseline of what it takes to be an NFL quarterback, but he possesses all the tools and mental makeup to reach his full potential. It requires time on task, providing the kid with stability, and giving him the opportunity to be repetitive in his daily routine with the right coaching to improve. It is a long process, a long process to get these kids where they need to go, especially at the quarterback position.”
Saleh clarified that he is not attempting to “shield” Ward, pointing out both some “easy throws” he believes the quarterback would prefer to take back and observable improvements in Ward’s pocket presence. These positive signs must appear more frequently for Ward to continue being viewed as a worthwhile project in Tennessee.
