The Tennessee Titans' 2024 NFL season has hit a rough patch early, as the team dropped to 0-2 following a 24-17 defeat at the hands of the New York Jets. This recent loss has sparked criticisms and reflections, particularly focused on the team's young quarterback, Will Levis.
Levis, who has shown a proclivity for risk-taking, committed a game-altering error in the matchup against the Jets. A critical pass directed towards Tyjae Spears resulted in a fumble, which the Jets capitalized on. The mistake did not go unnoticed by Offensive Coordinator Callahan, who described Levis' decision as "dumb" during his postgame press conference.
The Recklessness Factor
Will Levis has become known for his daring approach on the field, a style that analysts believe contributed to his fall to the 33rd overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. In the first two games, Levis has thrown three interceptions and fumbled twice. This recklessness has been a point of concern, echoing back to his college days where similar behavior was evident.
"I think a lot of people, when they hear gunslinger, they think about recklessness," Levis reflected. "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. 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."
Response to Criticism
Levis' reaction to the criticism from Offensive Coordinator Callahan showcased a level of maturity and understanding. "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. "I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching."
The young quarterback also shared his own frustrations over the fumble. "I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me," Levis revealed. "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."
Aiming for a Playoff Run
Despite the rocky start, the Titans remain focused on their ultimate goal for the 2024 season: a playoff run. "The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run," Levis stated with determination.
Looking ahead, the Titans are set to host the Green Bay Packers this coming Sunday. The Packers will be without their starting quarterback Jordan Love, with Malik Willis stepping in due to injury. This game presents a crucial opportunity for the Titans to recalibrate and potentially secure their first win of the season.
Will Levis' self-reflection and willingness to accept coaching highlights his growth and maturity as a player. However, the pressure is mounting for both Levis and the Titans to transform those introspective moments into tangible success on the field. How effectively they can adapt and overcome these early setbacks will be telling for the rest of their season.