Titans find a quarterback guru as next head coach
YouTube: Official NFLThe Titans named Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan as the team’s next head coach. What does this mean for quarterback Will Levis?
Following a surprising move earlier in the offseason that relieved Mike Vrabel of his head coaching duties, the rabid Tennessee fan base now knows who will lead the way in Vrabel’s stead.
Brian Callahan, a long-time NFL assistant dating back to 2010, is finally getting a chance to run his own show. His previous work with star quarterbacks is particularly intriguing.
Callahan spent time with a couple of Hall of Fame quarterbacks, Peyton Manning and Matthew Stafford. He also coached a younger Derek Carr when the former Raider was at the peak of his powers.
Most recently, Callahan helped Joe Burrow transition from college football star to elite NFL signal-caller. Although Callahan has no prior experience calling plays, it’s clear what he brings from a quarterback development standpoint.
What the Brian Callahan hire means for quarterback Will Levis
That brings us to the Titans’ second-round pick in 2023, Will Levis. The former Kentucky Wildcat witnessed a turbulent debut campaign after being thrust into the starting lineup earlier than expected.
Levis completed less than 60 percent of his passes, and in nine starts, he recorded nine total touchdowns while throwing four interceptions. All in all, the rookie did what he could behind a lackluster offensive line.
Now, as he was so proficient in doing elsewhere, Callahan will be tasked with helping Levis reach his lofty ceiling. But the duo must receive help from the front office in the way of roster upgrades.
As raw as he is, Levis had no chance to improve in any meaningful way in Year 1. Defenders constantly pushed him out of the pocket, and his receiver group is amongst the worst in the NFL.
The Titans have a full assortment of draft picks for general manager Ran Carthon, plus a bevy of salary cap space for impending free agents.
Callahan is the right man for the job, but he cannot succeed without help from the higher-ups — the same with Levis.
This offseason serves as a turning point for the franchise — can Tennessee get back to the NFL Playoffs in the AFC South? Or are they doomed for eternity with the Jaguars, Colts, and Texans all on the rise?
Only time will tell.