The Tennessee Titans' offseason moves reflect a club that expects to contend in its first season under new coach Brian Callahan.
The Titans signed receiver Calvin Ridley in free agency, added running back Tony Pollard to help replace Derrick Henry, and recently agreed to terms with slot wideout Tyler Boyd. Adding two receivers who turn 30 during the season provides experience around DeAndre Hopkins and helps buffer quarterback Will Levis.
The second-year quarterback said Thursday that the moves highlight the plan to win in 2024.
"For one, it means that they're not afraid to make those investments and they want to go win, which is awesome to see," Levis said, via the Associated Press.
The Titans also helped bolster the offensive line, using the No. 7 overall pick on left tackle JC Latham. Questions about the right side of the line remain, but the unit should be improved with Latham and second-year guard Peter Skoronski on the left side.
The veteran additions to the wide receiver room and another pass-catching back to pair with Tyjae Spears were moves intended to aid Levis' improvement in Year 2.
"It's going to be great for all of us and just great to have that environment of competitiveness, and everyone's going to get better because of it," Levis said.
The key will be how much Levis develops under Callahan. During his rookie campaign, the quarterback showed off a massive arm and toughness in the pocket. Big-play hunting is fun, but can he keep the offense on schedule and take the short, easy throws?
Callahan said early in the process that Levis is a willing learner.
"He's really gotten better in a short amount of time because of the way he approaches his job, and that's all you can ask for at this point of year," Callahan said.
The Titans inked backup Mason Rudolph this offseason to be a veteran presence behind Levis. Rudolph also represents a quarterback who can play the style of ball Callahan brings to Tennessee -- getting the ball out on time, winning the short game, and keeping the offense on schedule. At this point, no one is suggesting Rudolph will leapfrog Levis soon, but if the second-year QB struggles, he could get the hook under a new coach.
