The Progression of Cam Ward

Mike Patton

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The Progression of Cam Ward image

TL;DR

  • Cam Ward shows improved decisiveness, making quicker throws in the pocket.
  • Ward is now more active with his legs, contributing to first downs and touchdowns.
  • These improvements reinforce confidence in Ward as the Titans' future quarterback.

This week, Cam Ward is entering the game following one of his most impressive performances of the season. The rookie quarterback, who was the first overall selection, completed 28 of 42 passes for 256 yards, scoring one touchdown on the ground and another through the air. Ward is progressively adapting to the NFL's pace and rhythm each week. Considering his initial performance compared to his current level, Ward is reinforcing the confidence that Titans supporters and the Titans organization have placed in him as the quarterback destined to guide them back to victory. The question remains, however, how has this significant improvement occurred? 

His decisiveness in the pocket has certainly stood out. During his NFL Draft preparations, many noted Ward's inclination to hold the ball too long, a trait they believed wouldn't translate well to the NFL. Initially, he continued this habit, which proved detrimental to the team. Ward has previously stated his preference for holding the ball longer to give his playmakers time to get open. However, this approach wasn't always effective with a Titans offensive line still struggling to gel, resulting in sacks and negative yardage. In recent weeks, though, Ward has demonstrated improved play development and decisiveness, making throws whether the target is open or not, thereby keeping the offense on track, which is a significant improvement. 

Ward has also been more active with his legs. Throughout his career, Ward has increasingly relied on his arm talent to make plays, using his legs less. While this approach has been successful for him up to this point, it's not always effective in the NFL. Earlier in the season, Ward had opportunities to run but remained in the pocket, waiting for receivers to become open. This often resulted in sacks or throwaways, as he'd run out of time. However, he's become more comfortable recently, trusting his judgment and taking off with the ball when other options aren't available. Consequently, he's now a factor in the running game, contributing to Cam's first downs and even a touchdown. Despite not running frequently, this aspect of his game must be considered moving forward, as he's demonstrated an ability to make plays with his legs. 

Ward's play has noticeably changed, whether he's making a throw when it's available after going through his progressions, or tucking the ball and running, something he rarely did in the first ten weeks of the NFL season. Cam Ward's rookie year was anticipated to be unpredictable, with both highs and lows. However, the significant positive is Ward's evident improvement, which is a promising sign for The Titans' future. We'll observe his further advancement this Sunday. 

Contributing Writer