The Tennessee Titans completed a significant trade during the 2026 NFL season by sending defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, a four-time Pro Bowler, to the Chicago Bears. In return, Tennessee received two first-round draft picks and a fourth-round pick. This trade enables Chicago to reinforce its team with a top-tier player, aiming for their first Super Bowl victory since 1985. Meanwhile, the Titans increase their draft capital to aid in their long-term rebuilding strategy.
This transaction has sparked discussions regarding the future of Cam Ward, the Titans’ quarterback. Ward has encountered challenges throughout his second NFL season, and with the team at a low 1-6 record, speculation about exploring alternative quarterbacks before the November 10 trade deadline has emerged. ESPN insider Adam Schefter addressed these rumors on the latest episode of “NFL Live.”
The Tennessee Titans continue to stand squarely behind Cam Ward, and they still believe in him,” Schefter said. “Now that always could change, of course. But I think they think that he’s had three different head coaches. He’s had three different offensive coordinators. He’s a season and a half through his NFL career. And they believe he deserves the time he needs to develop into the quarterback that they still think he will be. They are not thinking quarterback right now. Could that change? Sure, but that’s not their thinking today.
Ward’s performance this season hasn’t met expectations. He has completed 129 of 208 passes, accounting for a 62% completion rate, with 1,179 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions over seven games. Additionally, he has achieved 71 rushing yards. Ward has taken 11 sacks and holds one of the league’s lowest passer ratings at 73.8, even below his 80.2 rating from his rocky rookie year.
Efforts were made to improve the team during the offseason. Notable additions included standout rookie wide receiver Carnell Tate, free agent wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, and respected offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. However, neither the new acquisitions nor Daboll’s offensive system under the leadership of new head coach Robert Saleh have enhanced Ward’s performance.
Considering the current circumstances, the Titans’ reluctance to trade for a quarterback aligns logically. Removing Ward from the lineup for a veteran quarterback could severely affect his confidence at the age of 24. Nevertheless, if Ward’s struggles continue, Tennessee might face tough decisions during the draft season.
With the acquisition of two additional first-round picks in both the 2027 and 2028 drafts, the Titans have positioned themselves favorably to select top quarterback prospects in upcoming years. Prospects like Darian Mensah, Dante Moore, Arch Manning, Trinidad Chambliss, Julian Sayin, and CJ Carr may be within reach.
The trade involving Simmons does not definitively indicate that Tennessee is abandoning plans with Ward. Instead, it provides the organization with expanded possibilities if Ward’s performance does not improve in the future.