Will Levis to Miss 2025 Season with Shoulder Surgery as Rookie Cameron Ward Steps In for Titans

Will Levis
Will Levis (NFL)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis will miss the 2025 NFL season after deciding to undergo surgery on his right shoulder. The injury, originally suffered during a game against the Miami Dolphins on September 30, impacted his throwing shoulder’s AC joint.

Levis attempted to recover through rest and rehabilitation but experienced discomfort during minicamp, prompting him to seek additional medical opinions. The surgery is scheduled for July 29, and Levis will not be with the team when training camp begins at Saint Thomas Sports Park.

Levis’ Setback Opens Door for Rookie Ward Amid Titans’ Quarterback Transition Plans

The Titans organization publicly supported Levis’ choice to prioritize his long-term health, commending his growth as a leader and professionalism during the offseason. Despite preparing to compete for the starting quarterback role, Levis’ injury prevented full participation.

His absence paves the way for rookie Cameron Ward, the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, to lead the team in training camp. Veteran Brandon Allen, who has familiarity with head coach Brian Callahan from their time in Cincinnati, will likely serve as Ward’s backup.

Will Levis
Will Levis (NFL)

After suffering the shoulder injury last season, Levis returned to play against the Indianapolis Colts but struggled and missed the next three games. He ended the 2024 season with a 2-10 record as a starter, tallying 2,091 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.

In spring OTAs, Levis appeared healthy and rotated first-team reps with Ward. However, continued discomfort during minicamp ultimately led to the decision for surgery, cutting short what could have been a key developmental year.

Ward Takes Over as Titans Face Injuries to Key Players Entering Training Camp

Throughout the offseason, Levis trained in California with personal coach Jordan Palmer, working on refining his throwing mechanics and footwork. His efforts were focused on recovery and competition, showing no visible signs of injury during OTAs.

During minicamp, Coach Callahan’s quarterback rotation featured Ward starting, followed by Levis and then Allen and Tim Boyle. With Levis sidelined, the Titans will now turn fully to Ward to establish chemistry with the offense as the new starter.

Beyond Levis, the Titans are also dealing with other injury concerns. Cornerback L’Jarius Sneed will start training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list as he recovers from a quad injury that sidelined him for the final 12 games of 2024.

Center Lloyd Cushenberry III is also on the PUP list due to a torn Achilles from Week 9. He has been participating in limited workouts and remains hopeful for a Week 1 return. Meanwhile, wide receiver Treylon Burks, recovering from an ACL tear, is expected to fully participate in camp as he enters a crucial contract year.