As the Tennessee Titans continue to navigate the evolving landscape of the NFL offseason, one position stands out above all others in terms of intrigue and competition—the quarterback position. With Ryan Tannehill entering what could be one of his final seasons with the Titans, and the team’s decision to draft quarterback Will Levis, a new dynamic is beginning to take shape in Tennessee. General Manager Mike Borgonzi recently spoke about Levis’ potential, emphasizing that the former Kentucky star brings a “lot of value” to the team, especially as the quarterback competition heats up.
The Titans’ quarterback situation has long been a topic of conversation. Tannehill, who has been with the team since 2019, led the Titans to multiple playoff appearances, including a top seed in the AFC during the 2021 season. However, his performance in recent years has drawn increasing scrutiny, with some believing that it’s time for the franchise to explore the future. Levis’ arrival in Tennessee signals the team’s desire to develop a young, long-term solution at quarterback, and Borgonzi’s comments suggest that the team is committed to fostering an open and competitive environment at the position.
Borgonzi acknowledged that Levis’ value goes far beyond his potential as a starting quarterback. “Will is a guy that brings a lot of value to our quarterback room,” Borgonzi said. “He has a strong arm, a lot of physical tools, and he’s a guy that is willing to work and learn. There’s a lot of growth potential there, and we’re excited to see how he develops over the next few months.”
Levis’ physical tools are undeniable. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 229 pounds, he possesses the ideal size and frame for an NFL quarterback. His arm strength, which was one of the most frequently praised aspects of his game during his college career, is also a key asset that could serve him well in the NFL. However, as Borgonzi points out, raw talent and potential are only part of the equation. It’s the mental aspect of Levis’ game, coupled with his work ethic, that the Titans believe will help him thrive in a highly competitive environment.
“Will has the tools to be successful, but it’s going to come down to how he adapts to the speed of the NFL,” Borgonzi explained. “The system we run, the way we train, and the pressure that comes with being an NFL quarterback—it’s all about how quickly he can adjust. We’re confident that with the right guidance and mentorship from our coaching staff and veterans in the locker room, he’s going to take big strides.”
Levis’ college career was filled with ups and downs. He spent his first two seasons at Penn State before transferring to Kentucky for his junior and senior years. During his time with the Wildcats, Levis displayed flashes of brilliance but also struggled with consistency. His 2022 season, in particular, was a mixed bag, as he battled injuries and faced a lack of consistent offensive support. Despite this, he still posted solid numbers, including over 2,400 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and a 65.4% completion rate in his final season at Kentucky.
Levis’ decision to enter the NFL Draft was met with both excitement and skepticism. On one hand, his physical attributes and potential upside made him an intriguing prospect. On the other, there were questions about his consistency, decision-making, and whether he could elevate his game to the next level. Levis’ draft slide—he was taken in the second round—was a result of these questions. However, the Titans, who had been looking for a quarterback to groom behind Tannehill, saw an opportunity to select a player with the tools to eventually lead the franchise.
In Borgonzi’s eyes, Levis’ ability to learn and grow is just as important as his physical tools. “A big part of the value that Will brings to our team is his attitude,” Borgonzi said. “He’s a guy that wants to improve. He’s driven, and he understands that success in this league doesn’t come overnight. He’s willing to put in the work.”
The quarterback competition in Tennessee is shaping up to be one of the most compelling storylines of the offseason. Tannehill, who has been the Titans’ starting quarterback since 2019, will have the first opportunity to retain his job as the team’s leader. The 34-year-old veteran has experienced both highs and lows during his time in Nashville, but he has undoubtedly been a stabilizing force for the Titans. However, with the rise of Levis and the presence of backup Malik Willis, the competition for the starting role is far from settled.
For Tannehill, the pressure to perform is greater than ever. The 2025 season could be a make-or-break year for the veteran, as the Titans weigh their long-term options at quarterback. Tannehill’s familiarity with the offense and leadership qualities give him a slight edge, but Levis’ arrival has added an element of uncertainty. While Levis is expected to start as a backup in his rookie season, it’s clear that the Titans will give him every opportunity to prove he’s ready to take the reins.
Borgonzi made it clear that the Titans aren’t simply handing the starting job to Tannehill. “It’s going to be a competition,” Borgonzi said. “We want to see how everyone performs when the pads are on and when the lights come on. There’s no question that Ryan is our leader, but we’re excited to see how Will and Malik handle the challenges that come with competing at this level.”
The presence of Malik Willis, who was drafted by the Titans in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, only adds another layer to the quarterback competition. Willis, known for his dual-threat ability, had a tumultuous rookie season in 2022, seeing limited action and struggling in his few starts. While his athleticism and playmaking ability are undeniable, he also showed inconsistency in his passing mechanics and decision-making. Like Levis, Willis will need to prove he has the necessary skills to thrive as an NFL quarterback, but his ability to contribute in other areas—such as running the football—could give him an edge in the battle for the backup role.
Levis’ arrival, however, has quickly shifted the narrative in Tennessee. Whereas Willis had a year to learn the offense and adjust to the NFL, Levis is entering the league with high expectations. There is a sense of urgency for him to develop quickly, and that’s something Borgonzi is acutely aware of. “It’s going to be about giving Will the right environment to grow,” Borgonzi said. “We’re not rushing him, but we also understand that if he’s going to be the future of this team, he has to be given the chance to prove it.”
The Titans’ decision to draft Levis was a clear indication that they are looking ahead to the future. While Tannehill still has value in the present, Tennessee is preparing for a time when he may no longer be the team’s quarterback. The success of the franchise is tied to finding a long-term answer under center, and Levis could be that player. If he can develop into a capable starting quarterback, the Titans could be set for a new era of success.
Ultimately, the quarterback competition in Tennessee is one of the most exciting storylines heading into the 2025 season. Tannehill’s experience and leadership will provide a steadying presence, while Levis brings youth, potential, and a drive to prove he’s the future of the franchise. As training camp progresses, the competition will only intensify, and Borgonzi will be closely watching how each player handles the pressure. The Titans are in a position where they can afford to give their quarterbacks a fair chance to compete, and the results will likely have long-term implications for the direction of the franchise.
As the Titans continue to evaluate their options at quarterback, one thing is certain: the competition will bring out the best in each of them. Levis has the opportunity to prove he is more than just a raw prospect, while Tannehill has a chance to silence critics and remind everyone why he was once considered one of the top quarterbacks in the AFC. In the end, the Titans’ quarterback future could very well be decided in the crucible of competition, and Mike Borgonzi’s faith in Levis is a sign that the organization is prepared to do whatever it takes to secure that future.