As the Tennessee Titans assess their quarterback situation, Will Levis’ future with the organization may already be in doubt.

The Tennessee Titans, like many teams in the NFL, find themselves at a crucial crossroads when it comes to their quarterback position. Will Levis, the Titans’ second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, came into the league with high expectations, but his future with the organization might already be in jeopardy. As the team looks to refine its roster for future success, it’s clear that quarterback is one of the most important areas to address.

While Levis has shown flashes of talent, there are growing questions about whether he’s the right fit for the Titans moving forward. With the team facing a potential rebuild, an aging roster, and a shifting offensive philosophy, Will Levis’ days with the Titans could be numbered, especially with his performance, the team’s evolving needs, and his position in the quarterback depth chart.

Levis’ Draft Journey and Early Promise

Will Levis arrived in Tennessee after a career at the University of Kentucky that turned heads. Levis was considered one of the top quarterbacks in the 2023 draft class, known for his powerful arm, athleticism, and potential to develop into a franchise quarterback. Despite questions about his consistency, he was widely regarded as an intriguing prospect with a high ceiling. His ability to make all the throws, along with his leadership and physical traits, made him a desirable selection for many teams, including the Titans.

The Titans, led by General Manager Ran Carthon and Head Coach Mike Vrabel, were clearly looking to the future when they selected Levis. Ryan Tannehill, who had been the team’s starter for several seasons, was showing signs of regression, and the Titans needed a potential successor who could develop into the quarterback of the future. With Tannehill’s contract situation also in flux, Levis was seen as the potential answer to the Titans’ quarterback dilemma.

However, as the 2023 season unfolded, questions about Levis’ immediate readiness and long-term fit with the team began to surface. Despite the promise he showed as a prospect, the challenges of transitioning to the NFL have been apparent.

The Rise of Malik Willis and the Quarterback Controversy

The first sign that Levis’ status with the team could be uncertain came when Malik Willis, a 2022 third-round pick, continued to show up on the depth chart as a viable backup to Ryan Tannehill. Willis, a dual-threat quarterback with an incredibly dynamic skill set, had his struggles during his rookie season but was still very much part of the Titans’ quarterback conversation.

Willis’ performance in limited action during the 2023 season has kept him in the conversation as a developmental option. His strong mobility, paired with the team’s desire for a quarterback who can complement their running game with Derrick Henry, created some doubts about whether Levis was the long-term solution. With Willis’ ability to make plays with his legs and push the defense vertically, the Titans began to question whether they needed a more mobile, adaptable quarterback who could fit their offensive system.

Meanwhile, Levis was still adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL, leading to moments of inconsistency. His rookie year featured some struggles with accuracy and decision-making, which is common for quarterbacks making the leap from college to the NFL, but the Titans’ lack of success only amplified the scrutiny on their young quarterback. Levis’ inability to seize a starting role despite being drafted high raised concerns over whether he could truly be the Titans’ future quarterback.

Levis’ Performance and the Titans’ Offensive Struggles

One of the most significant factors contributing to the uncertainty surrounding Will Levis’ future with the Titans has been the team’s offensive struggles. While Levis was brought in with the expectation of developing into a franchise quarterback, the offensive scheme in Tennessee has been in a state of flux. Under Offensive Coordinator Tim Kelly, the Titans have tried to modernize their offense to become more dynamic and pass-first, but their struggles to execute have left them trying to find an identity.

The Titans’ offensive line, which has been inconsistent at best, has also compounded the challenges for Levis. A lack of protection and stability upfront has made it difficult for the young quarterback to have time in the pocket to showcase his skills. As a result, Levis’ development has been stunted by circumstances beyond his control. However, this doesn’t change the reality that his play has been uneven at times, and there have been struggles with his ball placement and anticipation in the passing game.

Additionally, the Titans’ lack of a true No. 1 receiver has created a tough environment for Levis. With the team’s receiver corps being unremarkable, it’s been difficult for the quarterback to develop chemistry with his targets. While players like Treylon Burks and Robert Woods are solid options, they haven’t been able to consistently create separation and give Levis a true downfield threat.

These offensive struggles are not solely on Levis, but as the team assesses its quarterback situation, it’s hard to ignore the lack of improvement in the passing game. For the Titans to truly contend in the future, they will need a quarterback who can elevate those around him, something that has been difficult for Levis to do consistently.

The Titans’ Future and the Quarterback Question

As the Titans enter the 2025 offseason, they face several key questions about the future of their roster. Ryan Tannehill, despite still being under contract for another year, has seen his performance regress, and the team has clearly been looking toward the future. Malik Willis, as previously mentioned, is a wildcard with his dual-threat ability, though his development is far from guaranteed.

Will Levis’ place on the team depends on several factors. While he showed enough promise in college to warrant his selection, the Titans are now facing an environment where immediate success is necessary. The team has a lot of roster needs, from the offensive line to receiving weapons, and a franchise quarterback is crucial to building a competitive team. The question is whether Levis can prove that he’s the right guy to lead the Titans forward.

If the Titans do not see enough growth from Levis in 2024, they might explore other options, including potentially looking for a veteran quarterback to come in and help the team compete immediately. With the Titans still searching for consistency and an identity on offense, they could look to move on from Levis if he does not show significant strides.

Trade Rumors and the Titans’ Long-Term Vision

The Titans may not be ready to give up on Levis just yet, but the possibility of a trade has already been floated in the media. If the team does not believe in Levis’ potential, they could look to move him while he still holds value. The 2025 NFL Draft offers a chance for the Titans to secure another young quarterback prospect or bring in a more experienced player who might fit their system.

As the team moves into the new season, they will likely evaluate Levis alongside Tannehill and Willis, with the goal of making the best possible decision for the long-term future of the franchise. If the Titans are committed to a rebuild, it could be in their best interest to give Levis the chance to develop, but if they are looking for immediate success, they might consider other quarterbacks who fit their offensive philosophy.

The Need for Patience and Development

Ultimately, Will Levis’ future with the Tennessee Titans will depend on his ability to adapt to the NFL game and prove that he can handle the challenges of being a starting quarterback. While it may seem premature to give up on a young quarterback, the Titans’ need for a stable and reliable passer has never been more urgent.

Levis still has time to turn things around, but the clock is ticking. With the team potentially looking to retool and make moves toward contention in the near future, the question becomes whether Levis can prove that he is the solution at quarterback or if the Titans need to explore other options.

It’s possible that, with a change in offensive philosophy, better offensive line play, and improved receiving options, Levis could develop into the quarterback the Titans were hoping for when they drafted him. But in the cutthroat NFL world, the team’s decision on his future could be made sooner than expected, especially if they do not see the growth they need from the young signal-caller.