Challenging Start for Tennessee Titans in 2024 NFL Season

The Tennessee Titans have encountered a challenging start to their 2024 NFL campaign, suffering a 24-17 defeat to the New York Jets in Week 2, which dropped them to a 0-2 record. The game’s pivotal moment came when quarterback Will Levis threw a pass to Tyjae Spears, resulting in a costly fumble that turned the tide in favor of the Jets.

Levis’ Risk-Taking Approach Under Scrutiny

Offensive coordinator Callahan didn’t mince words during his postgame press conference, branding Levis’ decision to make that throw as “dumb.” This criticism aligns with the emerging narrative surrounding Levis, who is known for his risk-taking style on the field. He admitted, “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. I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching.”

Levis has acknowledged the need to improve his decision-making, indicating growth and self-awareness. “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.”

This recognition of his own mistakes and the ability to move past them shows a maturity that might benefit him and the team in the long run. However, the statistics are glaringly concerning: Levis has thrown three interceptions and surrendered two fumbles in just two games, a performance that has contributed to the Titans’ winless start.

An Issue of Recklessness

Analysts and fans alike have speculated that Levis’ propensity for taking risks played a part in his draft position. Selected 33rd overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Levis has struggled to shed the label of being reckless with the ball—a point he himself conceded. “I think a lot of people, when they hear gunslinger, they think about recklessness. 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,” Levis explained. “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.”

Despite the early-season struggles and the criticisms leveled at him, Levis has the support of the organization to rebound. The Titans remain steadfast in their ambition for the season, which is nothing short of a playoff run. “The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run,” Levis stated, reinforcing the team's high aspirations.

Upcoming Challenges vs. the Packers

Looking ahead, the Titans are set to host the Green Bay Packers this Sunday. In a twist of fate that could be favorable for Tennessee, the Packers will be without their starting quarterback Jordan Love. Stepping in due to injury will be Malik Willis, a scenario that may alleviate some pressure off the Titans' defense.

Regardless of the Jets’ game outcome, Levis’ willingness to face criticism head-on and his transparent reflection on his performance could serve as a cornerstone for personal and team improvement. If his candidness translates into more cautious, calculated play, the Titans’ path to a potential playoff berth may very well start with their upcoming game.

The Titans’ ability to navigate through these early hurdles will undeniably set the tone for the rest of their season. For Levis and the offensive unit, the key will be finding the balance between maintaining their aggressive style and minimizing costly errors.

As the team continues to regroup and refocus, Titans fans will be hoping for a turnaround that aligns with their playoff aspirations. Until then, all eyes will remain on Levis and how he responds to the adversity that has marked the start of his 2024 season.