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Latest NFL Injury Creates Monster Matchup for Patriots

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jul 21, 2025 8:30 PM ET

The New England Patriots storm into an electrifying Week  7 clash with the Tennessee Titans as rookie phenom Cam Ward takes center stage under the lights. With the Titans' former starter Will Levis sidelined for the entire 2025 season following shoulder surgery, anticipation is sky‑high. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel returns to Tennessee, injecting emotional gravity into this high-stakes showdown.

Levis’ shoulder surgery is set for July 29 after he re-aggravated his right AC‑joint injury, originally sustained in Week 4 of last season against Miami. “After consulting with doctors and his representatives, Will Levis has decided to undergo shoulder surgery that will sideline him for the entire 2025 season,” the Titans confirmed via ESPN.

Selected No. 1 overall in April’s draft, Ward—fresh off 158 college touchdown passes—earned first-team reps over Levis during OTAs.

His explosive dual-threat skill set sets up a riveting face-off with Patriots' sophomore Drake Maye, whose cannon arm and pocket awareness have earned him comparisons to Josh Allen.

Veteran Brandon Allen reunites with coach Brian Callahan in Tennessee, but the injury to Levis confirms that Ward has secured the starting role.

Mike Vrabel’s return to Nashville is rich with emotion and narrative fire. He led the Titans from 2018–2023, guided them to three playoff runs, won Coach of the Year in 2021, and so far remains beloved by their fanbase. How long that lasts might just depend on how good Drake Maye looks in week 7 of the new season.

Will Ward’s rookie composure eclipse Maye’s flair, or will Vrabel overshadow both with a statement homecoming? Expect a pressure-cooker of young quarterback talent and emotional stakes, making this clash unmissable.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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