Titans need to continue maximizing Calvin Ridley after DeAndre Hopkins trade

The Tennessee Titans entered the season with one goal, and that was to find out whether or not Will Levis was the quarterback of the future. It may not be the preferred outcome, but decision makers Ran Carthon, Chad Brinker, and Brian Callahan appear to have their answer.

The current version of the Titans is bleak, but Callahan will continue attempting to make progress while planning for the future. As long as there is a question mark at quarterback, the excitement is going to continue to feel like it is at an all-time low.

Unfortunately, the Titans are figuring out what they're playing for in a wasted season.

Seeing progress from a promising rookie class is important, and considering that Callahan and Dennard Wilson are first-time playcallers, it is important that they use this year to get more comfortable with their respective roles.

Force-feeding Calvin Ridley targets is also important as he's the only established receiver under contract for the Titans next season. As embarrassing as Sunday's defeat to the Detroit Lions was, there was one positive outcome. Ridley recorded a career-high 10 catches on 15 targets for 143 yards.

Ridley previously expressed frustration with his production and role in the Titans offense. Sunday was Ridley's first game as the clear-cut No. 1 wideout on the roster after DeAndre Hopkins was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs.

With Hopkins gone, there is no reason why Ridley shouldn't lead the team in targets by a healthy margin. That happened on Sunday, and it needs to continue happening. Performances like that one will keep the veteran pass catcher happy, and it gives the Titans their best chance to create explosive plays, such as Ridley's 47-yard reception versus the Lions.

A big season for Ridley wouldn't just be the football equivalent of putting lipstick on a pig, either. Callahan can use this year to experiment with his best receiver and find what he does best. With Hopkins gone, Ridley could play more of the traditional "X" receiver role which might suit him more, or maybe the Titans can call more plays specifically to get him more comfortable early. That happened on Sunday, via six first-quarter targets.

Without a quarterback or any other starting receivers locked into roles next year, the goal should be to get a comprehensive understanding of how to put Ridley in positions where he thrives. The Titans need to continue building around Ridley on offense. It would help get the staff jump-started on a 2025 plan.