**Cam Ward and the #Titans Aren’t Getting the “Respect” or “Attention” They Deserve, Says Star DL Jeffery Simmons**
The Tennessee Titans have quietly been assembling one of the most intriguing rosters in the NFL this offseason, yet the national media continues to overlook them. Star defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons isn’t happy about it. In a recent interview, Simmons voiced his frustration, claiming that the Titans—and their new quarterback, Cam Ward—aren’t getting the respect or attention they deserve.
“People sleep on us every year,” Simmons said. “It’s like they forget what this team is capable of. We’ve got a new energy, new leadership, and a squad that’s hungry to prove everyone wrong. Cam [Ward] is a baller, and the league is gonna find out soon.”
Simmons isn’t wrong. While teams like the Chiefs, Ravens, and Bengals dominate headlines, the Titans have been making under-the-radar moves that could position them as a surprise contender in the AFC. The addition of Cam Ward, the electric young quarterback from the college ranks, has injected a new level of excitement into the franchise. Yet, despite the potential, analysts and fans alike continue to dismiss Tennessee as an afterthought.
Cam Ward wasn’t the most high-profile quarterback in the draft, but those who have followed his career know what he brings to the table. A dynamic playmaker with a strong arm, elite mobility, and a knack for making something out of nothing, Ward has the tools to thrive in the NFL. His college career was marked by jaw-dropping throws, clutch performances, and an undeniable leadership presence—traits that translate well to the next level.
The Titans, recognizing his potential, made a bold move to secure him, betting that his upside could elevate an offense that has struggled with consistency in recent years. Ward joins a unit that features proven weapons like DeAndre Hopkins, Treylon Burks, and Tony Pollard, giving him the necessary support to succeed early. Still, skepticism remains. Critics point to his lack of experience in a pro-style system and the usual growing pains that come with young quarterbacks.
But Simmons isn’t buying the doubt. “Cam’s got that ‘it’ factor,” he said. “You see it in practice—the way he commands the huddle, the way he makes plays when everything breaks down. He’s not here to just be a guy; he’s here to win.”
While much of the focus will be on Ward’s development, the Titans’ defense—led by Simmons—remains the backbone of the team. Last season, Tennessee fielded one of the most physical and disruptive defensive units in the league, and with key pieces returning, they’re poised to be even better.
Simmons, a two-time Pro Bowler, anchors a defensive line that thrives on intimidation. Alongside him, Harold Landry, Arden Key, and newly acquired reinforcements give the Titans a formidable pass rush. The secondary, featuring standout cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, has the potential to be among the league’s best. If the defense performs as expected, they’ll take pressure off Ward and the offense, allowing the rookie QB to grow into his role without carrying the entire team.
“We know who we are on defense,” Simmons stated. “We’re going to set the tone every week, no matter who we’re playing. And when people see what we’re about, they’ll have no choice but to respect us.”
The lack of national attention isn’t necessarily a bad thing for the Titans. In fact, it might be exactly what this team needs. Under head coach Brian Callahan, Tennessee is embracing an underdog mentality, using the disrespect as fuel.
History has shown that teams flying under the radar often make the most noise. The 2021 Cincinnati Bengals, led by a young Joe Burrow, were counted out before shocking the league with a Super Bowl run. The 2023 Houston Texans, with rookie C.J. Stroud, went from projected bottom-feeders to playoff contenders in just one season. The Titans are hoping to follow a similar blueprint.
Simmons believes the pieces are in place. “We’ve got the right guys in the locker room—no egos, just workers,” he said. “When you’ve got a team that’s united and playing with a chip on their shoulder, that’s dangerous.”
Another reason the Titans are being overlooked is the perceived strength of their division. The Houston Texans, coming off a breakout year, are the darlings of the AFC South. The Jacksonville Jaguars, with Trevor Lawrence, are seen as the next up-and-coming powerhouse. Even the Indianapolis Colts, with Anthony Richardson returning from injury, are generating more buzz than Tennessee.
But divisional races are rarely won on paper. The Titans have a history of outperforming expectations, particularly in games that matter most. If Ward can quickly adapt to the speed of the NFL and the defense lives up to its potential, Tennessee could easily find themselves in the mix for the division crown.
“People can talk about whoever they want,” Simmons said. “But we’re not worried about what’s being said outside our building. We control what we can control, and when it’s time to play, we’ll show up.”
Jeffery Simmons’ message is clear: The Tennessee Titans are being disrespected, and they’re ready to make the league pay for it. With a talented young quarterback in Cam Ward, a ferocious defense, and a unified locker room, this team has all the ingredients to surprise the doubters.
Will they live up to Simmons’ confidence? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain—if the Titans start winning, the attention and respect will come whether the critics like it or not.
As Simmons put it: “Keep sleeping on us. We’ll wake everybody up soon enough.”
