Zierlien explains why the Titans will select quarterback Cam Ward first overall.
Zierlein Explains Why the Titans Will Select Quarterback Cam Ward First Overall
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one of the most compelling narratives in the lead-up to the event is the Tennessee Titans’ decision with the first overall pick. Speculation has been rife about who the Titans will select, with various players across different positions drawing attention. However, one name stands out in particular: quarterback Cam Ward, a rising star out of Washington State University.
NFL analyst Lance Zierlein has been at the forefront of evaluating Ward’s potential, and in his recent analysis, he has outlined why he believes the Titans will select the dynamic quarterback with the first overall pick. Zierlein, a well-respected voice in the NFL scouting community, has praised Ward’s skill set and the attributes that align perfectly with the Titans’ needs. But Zierlein’s explanation goes beyond just the obvious talent Ward possesses. In his assessment, he touches on both the immediate and long-term implications of the pick for the Titans, examining how Ward fits into the team’s offensive system and how he could help usher in a new era of success for the franchise.
A Franchise Quarterback in the Making
At the heart of Zierlein’s reasoning is the understanding that in today’s NFL, a franchise quarterback is the most crucial piece of a championship-contending team. The Titans, despite having a solid roster in other areas, have been lacking stability and consistency at the quarterback position for several seasons. While Ryan Tannehill has provided quality play during his tenure as the Titans’ starter, his age and recent injuries have limited his long-term outlook. The team’s decision to move forward with Tannehill, or potentially seek his replacement, has been a topic of intense discussion.
For Zierlein, the need to secure a top-tier quarterback is clear. The Titans have built a strong running game with Derrick Henry, one of the best running backs in the NFL. However, the lack of an elite quarterback has limited the team’s ability to take full advantage of their offensive weapons and consistently compete with top-tier teams. Zierlein sees Ward as the solution to this problem.
Cam Ward is a quarterback with all the tools that NFL teams look for in a future star. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing in at 215 pounds, he possesses the ideal size for an NFL quarterback. He is not only physically gifted, but his natural talent as a passer is what has drawn widespread attention. Over the past few seasons, Ward has put together an impressive college career, showing great poise in the pocket, exceptional arm strength, and an ability to make accurate throws on all levels of the field.
His performances at Washington State were marked by his ability to read defenses quickly and make decisions under pressure. He displayed a unique ability to manipulate defenders with his eyes and improve his accuracy on the move, all while maintaining control of the offense. Ward has the potential to develop into one of the league’s premier quarterbacks, making him an ideal candidate for a team like the Titans, who are looking to secure a long-term solution at the position.
Cam Ward’s Skill Set: Perfect for the Titans’ System
Zierlein’s breakdown of Cam Ward’s abilities highlights how the young quarterback’s strengths align perfectly with the Titans’ offensive system. While the Titans have traditionally built their offense around Derrick Henry’s dominant running game, they have also employed a play-action-heavy passing attack. This system requires a quarterback who is capable of making deep, accurate throws off play action while maintaining the poise and decision-making necessary to thrive in a run-heavy scheme.
Ward’s deep ball accuracy, in particular, makes him a natural fit for this kind of offense. He has shown a tremendous ability to drive the ball down the field, hitting receivers in stride on long throws. Whether it’s a deep post route, a go-route on the sideline, or a wheel route to the running back, Ward consistently places the ball where it needs to be. This ability is crucial for the Titans, whose play-action game relies heavily on vertical passing to stretch defenses.
In addition to his deep ball accuracy, Ward also displays advanced footwork and mechanics. His ability to stay balanced and make quick, decisive throws on the move is something Zierlein notes as being a significant advantage. The Titans’ offense often requires the quarterback to get outside the pocket and make plays on the run, something that Ward excels at. His athleticism and agility give him the ability to extend plays, either by throwing on the move or tucking the ball and running when necessary.
Moreover, Zierlein points out that Ward’s leadership qualities and ability to read defenses make him a natural fit for the NFL. In the fast-paced world of professional football, where defenses constantly evolve and adapt, a quarterback must be able to quickly process information, identify weaknesses, and adjust on the fly. Ward’s college experience has given him the opportunity to do just that. His ability to operate under pressure, while maintaining a calm and collected demeanor, will help him transition seamlessly into the NFL.
The Need for a Long-Term Solution at Quarterback
Beyond just the X’s and O’s, Zierlein’s analysis underscores the Titans’ broader need for a long-term solution at quarterback. With Tannehill’s window rapidly closing, the Titans find themselves at a crossroads. Their window of contention with a veteran quarterback may be narrowing, and with the team’s current roster, the Titans can afford to make a bold move to secure their future. A generational talent like Ward offers an opportunity to turn the page and build for the future.
As Zierlein notes, teams that have achieved sustained success in the NFL have typically had elite quarterbacks leading the way. While the Titans have had success with a strong defense and a potent rushing attack, they have been unable to reach the highest level of contention without a quarterback capable of elevating the team’s play in big moments. Ward offers just that — a player with the potential to be a star and carry the team for years to come.
The Titans have seen the impact a franchise quarterback can have on a team. They were able to reach the AFC Championship game with Tannehill at the helm, but ultimately, they fell short due to the limitations of their offense. The ability to secure a future star at the quarterback position could propel the Titans to the next level, and Zierlein believes Cam Ward is the best candidate to fill that role.
A New Era for the Tennessee Titans
Zierlein’s analysis also touches on the broader implications of drafting Cam Ward. If the Titans select Ward with the first overall pick, it will mark the beginning of a new era for the franchise. A new quarterback brings a sense of excitement and hope to the fanbase, something the Titans have not experienced in quite some time. The selection of Ward could energize both the offense and the organization as a whole.
By drafting Ward, the Titans are sending a clear message: they are committed to building a championship-caliber team. With a dynamic quarterback leading the offense, the team’s possibilities are virtually limitless. Not only does Ward bring talent and potential, but his ability to rally his teammates and raise the level of play around him could be the catalyst for sustained success.
Additionally, Zierlein suggests that Ward’s presence would significantly impact the Titans’ draft strategy moving forward. With a new quarterback under center, the team can focus on building around him, addressing the necessary holes in the roster. Whether it’s adding more weapons in the receiving game, bolstering the offensive line, or continuing to build the defense, the Titans can now shift their focus to complementing their star quarterback.
The Risk and Reward of the First Overall Pick
Of course, selecting a quarterback with the first overall pick comes with inherent risks. Not every quarterback drafted at the top of the board ends up living up to the hype. However, Zierlein notes that the risk is worth it when the potential reward is so high. With Ward, the Titans are selecting a player who possesses the skill set, leadership qualities, and football IQ to thrive in the NFL. The risk of missing on a quarterback of Ward’s caliber is one that many teams are unwilling to take.
Zierlein points out that Ward has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and if the Titans were to pass on him, they might regret it for years to come. The risk of selecting a player at the top of the draft is always present, but for the Titans, the upside of selecting Ward far outweighs any potential downside.
