Following their recent 24-17 setback against the New York Jets, the Tennessee Titans find themselves grappling with an 0-2 start to the 2024 NFL season. The team's aspirations for a playoff run are becoming increasingly tenuous.
Quarterback Will Levis emerged as a focal point of criticism due to a crucial error during the game. A pass intended for teammate Tyjae Spears resulted in a fumble, setting the stage for the Jets to capitalize. Offensive Coordinator Callahan did not mince words postgame, labeling the decision as "dumb" and showcasing his frustration.
Levis and His Reckless Reputation
Levis, known for his risk-taking nature on the field, has acknowledged the need for better decision-making. "I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me," Levis admitted. "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."
This is not the first time Levis has faced such scrutiny. In fact, his aggressive playing style is believed to have contributed significantly to his slide in the 2023 NFL Draft, where he was selected 33rd overall. This propensity for taking risks has already manifested itself early in the 2024 season. Over the first two games, Levis has thrown three interceptions and had two fumbles, undoubtedly raising eyebrows among analysts and fans alike.
Reflections on College and Career Growth
Levis himself has acknowledged the need for a change in his approach, reflecting on his college career where similar reckless tendencies were evident. "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," he stated. Despite efforts to adjust his game, the early-season struggles suggest there is still work to be done.
Coach-Player Dynamics
Despite the criticism, Levis appeared to handle it with a level-headed maturity, a trait that may bode well for his future. "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, emphasizing his acceptance of the coaching feedback. "I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching."
Challenges Ahead
The Titans’ next challenge comes in the form of the Green Bay Packers, whom they will host this Sunday. They catch a bit of a break as the Packers will be without their starting quarterback Jordan Love, with Malik Willis stepping in due to injury. However, even with this advantage, the Titans will need to sharpen their on-field execution if they hope to secure their first win of the season.
The aspirations for a playoff run remain central to the Titans' goals for the 2024 season. "The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run," Levis reaffirmed. Yet, this objective demands more consistent and controlled performances, particularly from their young quarterback.
As the season progresses, the onus will be on Levis to learn from these early missteps and display the leadership and decision-making prescribed by both his coaches and his self-reflection. The path to redemption is steep, but overcoming these initial hurdles could prove invaluable for the Titans’ playoff hopes and Levis’ development as a franchise quarterback.