It’s been the worst-kept secret in the NFL for some time, but the Tennessee Titans made it official on Thursday that Cam Ward is now the face of the franchise.
As expected, Tennessee selected Miami quarterback Ward with the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay.
Ward will now be tasked with revitalizing the fortunes of a franchise that went 3-14 in Brian Callahan’s first season as head coach last year.
And the Titans’ confidence in his ability to do that will be led by his track record of success and consistent improvement throughout a college career that took him to three different schools.
Ward began his time in college at FCS Incarnate Word, throwing for 4,468 yards and 47 touchdowns in his second season before transferring to Washington State.
He adapted to the FBS stage with little difficulty and impressed in two seasons with the Cougars before making the move to Miami for his final year of eligibility.
His lone season with the Hurricanes helped establish Ward as a contender for the top pick, as he demonstrated the playmaking ability both in and outside of the pocket to lead Miami to College Football Playoff contention.
Miami ultimately fell short in that quest, but Ward still led a 10-win season that saw him throw for 4,313 yards and an FBS-leading 39 touchdowns and orchestrate stirring comebacks against Virginia Tech and Cal.
A five-season spell in college in which he excelled at every stop proved an impressive enough resume for the Titans to make the bet that Ward can get them back on the right path.
For the sake of Callahan’s job, Ward will need to show positive signs early and often when he takes the field as Tennessee’s new franchise quarterback.
