NFL Draft: Warren Moon gives retired jersey number to Titans’ Cam Ward
The Tennessee Titans made a bold move in the NFL Draft by selecting Miami quarterback Cam Ward with the first overall pick. This decision did not come as a surprise, as Ward had an impressive season with Miami, leading them to a 10-3 record. He completed 67.2% of his passes for 4,313 yards and threw 39 touchdown passes, earning him the top spot in the draft.
What was unexpected, however, was the appearance of Warren Moon at Ward’s introductory news conference the following day. Moon, a former Houston Oilers quarterback and Pro Football Hall of Famer, surprised Ward by giving him permission to wear his retired No. 1 jersey for the Titans. This gesture symbolized Moon passing the torch to Ward and hoping that he would follow in his footsteps to the Hall of Fame.
The Titans’ general manager, Mike Borgonzi, was present at the news conference when Moon made his entrance with a Ward Titans jersey in hand. Moon played 10 seasons with the Houston Oilers, the predecessor of the Titans, and made nine Pro Bowl appearances during his 17-year NFL career.
The Titans had struggled with Will Levis as their starting quarterback last season, finishing with a disappointing 3-14 record under head coach Brian Callahan. Levis, who started nine games in his rookie year, failed to deliver, completing 63.1% of his passes for 2,091 yards with 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 12 starts.
As Levis continued to struggle, it became evident that the Titans needed a change at the quarterback position. With the selection of Ward as the first overall pick, the team hopes to revitalize their offense and turn their fortunes around in the upcoming season.
The addition of Ward brings a new energy and optimism to the Titans organization, with fans eagerly anticipating his debut on the field. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Ward as he looks to make a name for himself in the NFL and honor the legacy of Warren Moon.
