Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

‘There’s a Lot Riding on Cam Ward’: CBS Sports Ranks the Worst NFL Coach Heading to 2025 Season

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jul 16, 2025 9:46 AM ET

Heading into the 2025 NFL season, Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan faces immense scrutiny, with CBS Sports ranking him as the league’s worst coach. After a disappointing 3-14 debut season and inheriting a rebuilding roster, Callahan must prove he can guide rookie quarterback Cam Ward and reverse the team’s fortunes.

Callahan’s first year was marked by challenges, including managing the risk-prone tendencies of former starter Will Levis. Despite Callahan’s previous success as the Cincinnati Bengals’ offensive coordinator, his inability to stabilize the Titans’ offense raised concerns. CBS Sports emphasized that much of his future hinges on Ward’s ability to thrive under his guidance.

Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan speaks during a press conference at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park in Nashville, Tenn., Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.

The Titans’ decision to retain Callahan after a dismal season surprised many, especially as other coaches in similar situations were dismissed. Analysts have questioned whether Callahan can maximize Ward’s potential, given the high stakes and pressure to deliver immediate results. With the Titans ranked last in CBS’s offseason power rankings, optimism remains scarce.

Callahan’s struggles extend beyond the quarterback position, as the Titans finished near the bottom of the league in scoring last season. Critics argue that his lack of head coaching experience and questionable decision-making have hindered the team’s progress. Despite improvements in personnel, Callahan’s leadership remains a focal point of skepticism.

CBS Sports Names Tennessee Titans’ Brian Callahan as NFL’s Worst Coach Ahead of 2025 Season

Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan speaks during a press conference at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park in Nashville, Tenn., Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.

Titans’ Brian Callahan was recently named the worst head coach in the NFL ahead of next season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Cody Benjamin for CBS Sports.

We shouldn’t fault Callahan too much for inheriting an overhauled roster, but after he was unable to corral quarterback Will Levis’ riskiest tendencies, there’s a lot riding on Cam Ward essentially controlling himself as Tennessee’s new face of the franchise.

Ward’s development is crucial, as the rookie quarterback represents the Titans’ best hope for a turnaround. Reports suggest that Ward is putting in extra work, but without effective coaching, his potential may go unrealized. Callahan’s ability to provide structure and build confidence in his young quarterback is critical.

Tennessee Titans Head Coach Brian Callahan fields questions from the media at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

As the 2025 season approaches, Callahan’s tenure hangs in the balance. If the Titans fail to show progress, his time in Tennessee could be cut short, underscoring the unforgiving nature of the league.

Tennessee Titans Head Coach Brian Callahan, right, talks with coach after mandatory Titans Minicamp at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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