2025 schedule release shows NFL may be underestimating Titans QB Cam Ward's potential appeal

Per Jarrett Bell of USA Today, the last time a QB went No. 1 overall without a prime-time game was in 2011 with former Carolina Panthers star Cam Newton. The league must not have much confidence in passers named Cam. 

The Titans have yet to name Ward their starter, which may have influenced the league's decision. Still, it would be shocking if Tennessee rolled with third-year QB Will Levis in Week 1, especially after he went 2-10 in 12 starts last season. 

More importantly, that hasn't previously stopped the league from scheduling prime-time games for No. 1 picks. 

During his rookie season, Panthers QB Bryce Young played in two prime-time games (in Week 2 at home against the New Orleans Saints and Week 10 on the road against the Chicago Bears). That year, the 2023 No. 1 pick was named the starter in training camp in July, well after the schedule was released in May. 

Unlike Ward, Young is a Heisman Trophy winner (2021). The former Alabama star was also the face of Dr Pepper's "Fansville" campaign in 2022.

Ward, meanwhile, has been overlooked throughout his career. 247 Sports gave him zero stars coming out of Columbia High School in West Columbia, Texas. He started his college career at FCS school Incarnate Ward before transferring to Washington State and Miami.

His unusual journey showcases his resilience, which may attract fans. His arm talent could also help him gain a following. 

In his final season at Miami, Ward won the 2024 Davey O'Brien Award as college football's best QB after tossing 39 touchdown passes in 13 starts. 

The league can flex games, but the initial decision seems like a scheduling fumble. Wouldn't more fans want to watch Ward and Texans star QB C.J. Stroud on "Thursday Night Football" in Week 4 instead of the Seattle Seahawks and Arizona Cardinals, who missed the playoffs last season?