The Tennessee Titans played their first preseason game of the 2025 season on Saturday, losing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 29-7. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward played two offensive possessions, completing 5-of-8 passing attempts for 67 yards. It capped a productive week in Tampa, which included joint practices with the Buccaneers on Thursday.
Several roster bubble players entered Saturday's contest needing a good performance. Brian Callahan is still sorting through his depth chart. Certain position battles became clearer.
Which players managed to stand out — for better or worse? Let's take a closer look at what occurred during Saturday's preseason opener with the Buccaneers by identifying the standouts and duds.
Standouts and Duds from Titans' preseason 29-7 Week 1 loss
Stud: QB Cam Ward
The Titans' rookie quarterback played a pair of offensive series. On his second and final possession, Ward led a 12-play, 65-yard scoring drive that saw him convert multiple third down attempts. Ward looked confident and comfortable while making quick, shrewd decisions.
Stud: WR Calvin Ridley
We've heard about the budding connection between Ward and Calvin Ridley at practice. It immediately carried over, with Ridley recording three receptions for 50 receiving yards on Tennessee's second possession, the aforementioned lengthy touchdown drive led by Ward. Tennessee's No. 1 receiver is going to be busy this season.
Dud: Titans secondary
We're grouping the secondary because several defenders had less-than-ideal sequences. Amani Hooker and Darrell Baker Jr. were in coverage for big gains on Tampa's first possession. Undrafted rookie cornerback Jalen Kimber missed a tackle in the backfield that led to an explosive Bucs run in Titans territory, and eventual touchdown. Tennessee's depth in the secondary is questionable.
Stud: Starting offensive lineman
Fixing a lackluster offensive line was a priority for new general manager Mike Borgonzi. Bill Callahan's starting unit looked good, with Ward routinely having ample time to scan the field and find his receivers. The Titans had three of their expected starting five. Center Lloyd Cushenberry remains on PUP, and right guard Kevin Zeitler was a healthy scratch. The results were incredibly encouraging.
Dud: Backup quarterbacks
The Titans are low on talent behind Ward at quarterback and it was evident on Saturday. Both Brandon Allen and Tim Boyle were intercepted and neither player looked like a legitimate backup signal caller. Boyle was especially atrocious, throwing two picks, including a 39-yard pick-six. The Titans could continue searching for a potential upgrade leading up to cut-down day.