Is Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis set to make a quantum leap in his second season?
On Wednesday, Pro Football Focus' Gordon McGuinness named Levis to his 2024 All-Breakout Team, touting Levis' downfield passing ability.
First NFL TD pass for @will_levis and first Titans TD catch for @DeAndreHopkins!
— Tennessee Titans (@Titans) October 29, 2023
: Watch #ATLvsTEN on @NFLonCBS pic.twitter.com/rya3lHnon2
"Levis flashed some talent in his rookie campaign, recording three PFF game grades of 70.0 or higher," wrote McGuinness. "While he finished the year with only eight passing touchdowns, four of which came in his debut against the Atlanta Falcons, his 5.9 percent big-time throw rate was tied for the fifth among quarterbacks with 100 or more dropbacks."
This take could be viewed as hoopla, as Levis didn't look like an elite passer in his rookie season. In nine games, the 24-year-old completed 58.4 percent of his passes for 1,808 yards, eight TDs, four picks and a below-average 33.2 QBR.
However, Levis may improve after the Titans made notable changes this offseason.
After parting ways with ex-head coach Mike Vrabel, Tennessee hired Brian Callahan. While he served as Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator from 2019-23, QB Joe Burrow excelled, earning a Pro Bowl nod and making two AFC Title games.
The Titans also added playmakers in free agency, signing wide receiver Calvin Ridley, Tyler Boyd and former Pro Bowl running back Tony Pollard.
"Obviously, the Titans want Callahan to build an offense resembling what he created for Burrow," wrote Sports Illustrated's Gilberto Manzano. "The Titans could become a nightmare for opposing defenses, who will have to deal with physical jump-ball specialists Ridley and DeAndre Hopkins, a strong offensive line and a dynamic rushing duo of [Tyjae] Spears and Pollard."
In 2023, AFC South foe Houston selected QB C.J. Stroud with the second overall pick. He led the Texans to the playoffs and won Offensive Rookie of the Year. Tennessee, meanwhile, went 6-11 and missed the postseason.
If Levis clicks with his new pieces, it could jump-start the Titans and help them catch up to their divisional rival.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!