The highly anticipated debut of quarterback Cam Ward in his first full week of NFL training camp with the Tennessee Titans has shifted gears with the introduction of pads, revealing the inherent growing pains that often accompany a professional transition. While Ward has showcased flashes of brilliance, the intensity of padded practices has brought immediate challenges to the forefront for the promising rookie.
Recent sessions have underscored these difficulties, with Ward experiencing back-to-back days marred by interceptions, tipped passes, and dropped balls by receivers. Notably, he was picked off three times in a single Tuesday practice, followed by a pass tipped by linebacker Cody Barton and intercepted by cornerback Roger McCreary on Wednesday, highlighting the increased pressure and tighter windows in live-contact scenarios.
Despite these early setbacks, Ward maintains a pragmatic perspective on the team’s current development. “I just don’t think we’re at where we need to be,” Ward stated, acknowledging the work ahead. However, he expressed confidence in the team’s ability to improve daily, emphasizing the importance of consistent effort and progress as they continue to gel as a unit.
Individual plays during these intense sessions offered a mixed bag of results. Ward demonstrated his arm talent with a well-placed deep ball to wide receiver Calvin Ridley, showcasing potential chemistry. Conversely, another deep throw to Jha’Quan Jackson, hitting his hands, was unfortunately dropped, illustrating the fine margins in professional football and the need for precision from both ends.
Ward also elaborated on his communication approach with his receiving corps, emphasizing the need for clarity regarding his reads and ball placement. He specifically highlighted his collaboration with veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett, acknowledging Lockett as one of the league’s premier slot route runners and stressing the importance of learning where to precisely deliver the ball to such experienced playmakers.
An early technical issue that has surfaced is the prevalence of tipped balls, particularly stemming from Ward’s sidearm throwing motion. The rookie quarterback noted that this has been a consistent aspect of his game since childhood, occurring in high school and college. He anticipates that this will continue to be a factor at the NFL level, indicating a need for strategic adjustments or continued adaptation to mitigate the issue.
Crucially, the Titans organization and his teammates are not expressing significant concern regarding Ward’s resilience. His even-keel demeanor has impressed many, underscoring his mental toughness. As Ward himself articulated, “It’s ball. How you bounce back the next play. You just got to keep on stacking good points on top of each other,” reflecting a mature approach to adversity.
Tight end Chig Okonkwo echoed this sentiment, praising Ward’s consistent composure since joining the team. This unwavering readiness and composed presence are qualities highly valued in a quarterback, especially one navigating the demanding transition to the NFL. The team will have a week to refine these issues before a joint practice with Tampa Bay, offering a crucial opportunity for the rookie quarterback and the offense to apply their lessons learned.
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