Titans rookie QB Cam Ward learns key lesson after incident with three-time Pro Bowler

Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward learned one key lesson after a scuffle with defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. Be careful messing with a 6-foot-4, 305-pound defensive lineman. 

During Monday's practice, Ward threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Calvin Ridley. The No. 1 pick of the 2025 NFL Draft subsequently tapped Simmons and hit his signature "Zombieland" celebration. The three-time Pro Bowler didn't appreciate that, so he shoved the QB, resulting in a brief fight between the offense and the defense. 

Ward spoke about the incident for the first time on Wednesday. The QB said it taught him how strong Simmons is and insisted they've already moved past it.

"I think it was what we needed," the former Miami Hurricanes star told the media. "We love competing, especially me and Jeff. I'm excited to have that man as my teammate. I can't wait to see what we do on Sundays — I already know what he's about, but I get to see the real thing coming soon."  

After Tuesday's practice, Simmons said the skirmish was no big deal and that he can't hit the QB even if he's getting on his nerves. 

Ward and Simmons have developed a friendly rivalry throughout the team's offseason program. The 23-year-old rookie hasn't backed down, which is a good thing. That shows he has moxie, a quality that can help him win over the locker room. 

But Ward can't let his competitive fire get the best of him, as it did during Monday's practice.

In his Tuesday news conference, Titans head coach Brian Callahan said it was wrong for Simmons to touch Ward. However, he said, "If the QB enters willingly into the fray like that, then that's on him as well." 

The Titans could benefit from Ward playing with a chip on his shoulder. The team needs a passionate leader after a 3-14 season. 

Still, he must learn to control his emotions on the field. Otherwise, he could get into more tussles with defensive linemen.