Will Levis is back in the NFL, aiming to revive his career that stumbled with the Tennessee Titans. He hopes to succeed with the New York Jets, where a positive environment can aid his learning, improvement, and growth.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis prepared to take the field against the Houston Texans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., on January 5, 2025. Levis is signing with the Jets practice squad according to multiple reports. This move follows the expected release of Bailey Zappe.
This does not mean the Jets are replacing Geno Smith as their starter. The club lacks a backup star behind Smith, with rookie Cade Klubnik in the lineup. Levis offers potential value as an experienced young player. Despite being released by the Titans, he possesses the capability to succeed.
Entering the NFL in 2023, Levis was a promising yet enigmatic quarterback prospect. Selected in the second round by Tennessee, he initially impressed by throwing four touchdowns in a victory over Atlanta. His rookie season suffered setbacks from an ankle injury, affecting future performance.
Levis displayed arm strength and playmaking ability, kindling the Titans’ hopes for a long-term solution at quarterback. Unfortunately, optimism faded with Levis’s 2024 challenges, including turnovers and sacks. He recorded 13 touchdown passes but struggled with 12 interceptions, frustrating the team, resulting in a record of 2–10 in games he started.
Further difficulties emerged when a right shoulder injury against Miami required offseason surgery, sidelining him for the 2025 season. With Cam Ward selected first overall in 2025, the Titans waived Levis in August, sealing his future away from the franchise.
Levis, at 27 years old, requires significant coaching. The Jets offer skilled coaching to assist his development. Offensive coordinator Frank Reich boasts a robust coaching history with quarterbacks such as Peyton Manning, Philip Rivers, and Andrew Luck.
Jets quarterback coach Bill Musgrave has experience with top QBs like Matt Ryan and Derek Carr, reflected in their successful seasons. While Levis may not be New York’s future starter, quality coaching helps bridge the gap between his physical talents and required qualities for quarterback success.
As Levis navigates this crucial phase, he must prove his decision-making, health, and poise can match his physical strengths. His age and arm talent present hope, key aspects as he seeks another chance in the NFL.