Will Levis Breaks Silence on Departure from Titans After Cam Ward Named Starter; Signs with Raiders Amid Quarterback Uncertainty
May 29, 2025 — NFL Newsroom
Former Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis has officially addressed his decision to leave the franchise following the team’s announcement that newly acquired Cam Ward would be the starting quarterback heading into the 2025 season. Head coach Brian Callahan made the announcement earlier this week, confirming the long-speculated move that ultimately pushed Levis to seek a fresh start.
Levis, a 2023 second-round pick who showed flashes of promise during his time in Nashville, released a statement shortly after news broke of his signing with the Las Vegas Raiders. The young quarterback spoke candidly about his decision to part ways with the Titans, expressing both disappointment and optimism.
“I’ve given everything I had to the Titans organization, and I’m grateful for the opportunity they gave me to grow and prove myself,” Levis said in a statement. “But at this point in my career, I need to be somewhere that believes in my potential and gives me a real opportunity to compete. I believe Las Vegas is that place.”
Levis’ departure comes amid swirling speculation over Tennessee’s long-term quarterback strategy. With the Titans trading up to draft Cam Ward — the dynamic, dual-threat quarterback out of Washington State — it became increasingly clear that the organization was shifting in a new direction. Head coach Callahan confirmed as much, stating that Ward’s progression and leadership had earned him the starting job during offseason training and minicamps.
“Cam has shown he’s ready to take the reins of this offense,” Callahan told reporters. “He’s a special talent, and we believe he’s the right guy to lead this team moving forward.”
Sources close to the situation say Levis had hoped to enter training camp with a fair shot at reclaiming the starting role, but once Ward was declared the starter ahead of preseason, Levis and his representatives began exploring trade and release options. The Raiders, who have been uncertain at quarterback following injuries and inconsistent play in 2024, were quick to express interest.
Las Vegas is expected to give Levis a legitimate chance to compete for the starting job, especially with veteran Jimmy Garoppolo nearing the end of his contract and rookie development behind schedule. Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce welcomed the addition, praising Levis’ arm strength, football IQ, and toughness.
“He’s got a chip on his shoulder, and we love that,” Pierce said. “This is a guy who wants to prove he can lead a team. That’s exactly the type of player we want in this building.”
As training camps approach, all eyes will be on both Nashville and Las Vegas — two franchises now defined by bold quarterback decisions that could shape their futures for years to come.
