Why analytics favor Will Levis over C.J. Stroud in major category

In recent days, Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis has been receiving more and more love going into his second season. The Titans have done what they can to surround him with more talent while giving the defense a boost as well, and should be an improved team in 2024.

Levis has said and done all of the right things throughout the offseason and looks poised for a jump in Year 2.

But, let's not overlook his rookie campaign. He gave us a mixed bag, at times, but overall, Levis showed signs of promise. One area he was better than most?

Accuracy.

Take a look at a new set of data courtesy of NFL analytics expert, Warren Sharp, and where Levis ranked in terms of incompletions due to inaccurate passes.

A set of data like this only goes to show that Levis definitely did his part as a rookie, and that the Titans needed to give him more help. So, that's what they did. If he was throwing accurate balls, but the offense simply couldn't score points consistently, it wasn't all on him.

Going out and getting Brian Callahan, first and foremost, was the right move. But then, improving Levis' arsenal and bringing in Bill Callahan to help improve the offensive line instilled even more faith in the young quarterback.

C.J. Stroud had a great rookie season, but Will Levis deserves his flowers, too

One of the offseason darlings, this year, the Houston Texans, have been often mentioned as a Super Bowl contender. Houston has made several moves this year, too, to try and go all-in on a championship window behind their quarterback on a rookie deal.

C.J. Stroud is a great quarterback. No one would argue that point after what he was able to do in Year 1. Stroud made winning play after winning play. But, as the above data suggests, he was far from perfect.

Titans fans have to be a little tired of constantly hearing Stroud's name. Again, this is nothing against the player or person. Stroud is a stand-up guy, by all accounts, and has a bright future.

But, maybe, Levis deserves his flowers, too. Maybe, Levis is better than many have given him credit for.

The narrative surrounding Levis and his draft plummet has yet to evaporate, but the former Kentucky standout has an opportunity to put that story further in the past. If he is able to take a big step forward this season (and we think he will), there is no reason why he couldn't be up there with the Stroud's of the league.

Yeah, you read that right. It may be a bit of a bold prediction, but if all goes right for the Titans, Levis is going to surprise a lot of his doubters. The Titans did the right things this offseason. Now, it's time to put it all together.

And if it all comes together, Levis is going to deserve some apologies from those who have already counted him out.