The Tennessee Titans' 2024 NFL season has gotten off to a challenging start, falling to 0-2 after a 24-17 loss to the New York Jets in Week 2. A central figure in their early struggles is quarterback Will Levis, whose risky playing style has already led to significant mistakes in the opening games.
Levis, known for his risk-taking approach, made a critical error in the game against the Jets by throwing a pass to Tyjae Spears, which resulted in a fumble. The Jets capitalized on this fumble, contributing significantly to the Titans' defeat. Postgame, offensive coordinator Callahan did not hold back, labeling the decision as "dumb" during his press conference.
Levis himself was quick to shoulder the blame, acknowledging the need for better decision-making. "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 explained. "I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching."
Reflecting on his performance, Levis showed self-awareness and maturity, stating, "I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me. 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."
The young quarterback's reputation for recklessness has plagued him since his college career. Analysts point to this trait as a reason for his fall in the 2023 NFL Draft, where he was selected 33rd overall. Levis himself has admitted to being too reckless during his college days. "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," he explained. "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."
However, his professional record so far shows room for improvement. In just the first two games of the season, Levis has thrown three interceptions and fumbled the ball two times. This has undoubtedly contributed to the Titans' rocky start.
The Titans have set a high bar for themselves this season, with the goal of making a playoff run. This upcoming challenge will require sharper performances from all team members, especially their quarterback. "The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run," Levis stated, outlining the team's ambition amid their rough start.
Next on the schedule, the Titans will host the Green Bay Packers. The Packers will be playing without their starting quarterback Jordan Love, who is sidelined due to injury. Malik Willis is set to take over the reins. This game provides an opportunity for Levis and the Titans to reset and refocus their efforts on securing that elusive first win of the season. It is also a critical moment for Levis to prove that he can learn from his mistakes and lead his team with better decision-making on the field.
Levis' openness to criticism and willingness to reflect on his errors highlight a degree of maturity that could bode well for his future. The onus now is on Levis to translate this self-awareness into action, demonstrating improved performance and helping the Titans in their quest for a successful season.
As the Titans prepare for their next test, all eyes will be on their young quarterback. The forthcoming games will be crucial in determining whether Will Levis can overcome his early setbacks and drive his team towards the playoffs as intended.