Will Levis Undergoes Shoulder Surgery, Future with Titans Uncertain

The future of Will Levis, the Tennessee Titans’ quarterback, took a significant turn after the 26-year-old decided to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery. This decision has raised questions about his role with the team moving forward, particularly with the Titans selecting Cam Ward as the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Surgery Decision and Impact on Titans

Levis’ surgery decision, announced Monday, was made after he consulted with multiple medical professionals regarding his ongoing shoulder issues. NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported:

“What it means is pretty simple, Cam Ward is going to be the starting quarterback, as he was going to be the starting quarterback anyway.”

This situation solidifies Ward’s position while casting doubt on Levis’ future with the franchise.

Background on Will Levis

• Draft History: Will Levis was selected 33rd overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. The Titans had high hopes for him to develop into a franchise quarterback.
• Performance Metrics: Levis showed potential during his rookie season, totaling 8 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in nine appearances. However, his overall statistics in his second season revealed challenges:
  • 2024 Season: 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions across 12 games.
  • Pre-injury statistics: 4 touchdowns and 6 interceptions.

The Injury Timeline

Levis sustained his shoulder injury after a hard fall in Week 4 of the previous season. Although he continued to play, the discomfort persisted, limiting his effectiveness. Despite participating in rehabilitation and spring practices, he never seemed to regain his form. Rapoport noted:

“It sounds like [Levis’ shoulder] just never felt quite right, and the fact that he couldn’t get it to where he was throwing pain-free…"

This ongoing problem ultimately led to the decision for surgery.

A Changing Landscape for the Titans

With Levis stepping back, the Titans appear to be fully embracing the future with Cam Ward. The team’s direction has shifted considerably since their selection of Ward in April, creating a new competition landscape:

Key Points:

• Cam Ward’s Ascendancy: Ward’s selection marks a clear commitment to a new starting quarterback.
• Levis’ Contract Situation: Levis will have one year remaining on his contract, valued at just over $1 million, which eases any potential transition for the Titans to part ways with him.

Looking Ahead

Will Levis will focus on recovery, aiming for a complete return in 2026. It remains to be seen whether he will don a Titans uniform again. If not, Levis will likely seek new opportunities elsewhere in the league.

Summary

The Titans are charting a new course with Cam Ward at the helm, while Will Levis contemplates his next steps following his shoulder surgery. Only time will reveal if he can reclaim his position in the NFL or if a new chapter awaits.

For ongoing updates and in-depth analysis, explore resources at ESPN and NFL.com.