Titans' Callahan Talks Ridley, Levis, and Revamped Training Staff

Football, Player Personnel

The Tennessee Titans are gearing up for an exciting 2023 season, and head coach Brian Callahan has been busy reshaping the roster and infrastructure during the offseason. At this week’s NFL owners meetings, Callahan provided insights into some of the major moves and priorities for the upcoming campaign.

One of the biggest splashes the Titans made was acquiring star receiver Calvin Ridley from the Falcons. Callahan gushed about Ridley’s elite speed and route-running ability, calling him a “top level” talent at the position who brings a much-needed “element” of explosiveness to the offense. The coach suggested Ridley’s presence could open up even more opportunities for the team’s new running back pairing of Tony Pollard and rookie Tyjae Spears.

While bolstering the supporting cast was crucial, the Titans’ future likely hinges on the development of rookie quarterback Will Levis. The first-year signal caller out of Kentucky has grabbed Callahan’s attention with his impressive physical tools and drive to improve. “I’m excited about what’s to come for him,” Callahan stated. “He’s eager and willing to do what it takes to be a good player.”

Levis and the rest of the team will benefit from an overhauled strength and conditioning program spearheaded by new Director of Sports Performance Zac Woodfin. Callahan labeled Woodfin’s hiring as “really important” and praised his initial impact after an extensive search process. The coach is hopeful the reshuffled staff can not only maximize performance but also prioritize injury prevention moving forward.

Among the other topics Callahan touched on:

  • The reported trade for Chiefs cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, which the coach did not confirm but would bolster the secondary if completed
  • Position battles at right tackle, where young linemen like Nicholas Petit-Frere and Jaelyn Duncan have a chance to seize a role
  • Excitement about receivers Kyle Philips and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, who Callahan feels can be key contributors
  • A need to further bolster the pass rush alongside established vets like Harold Landry and Arden Key
  • The importance of backup QB Mason Rudolph, who will compete with Malik Willis behind Levis
  • Plans to hold joint practices with another team during training camp to simulate game scenarios

As the Titans enter a new era under Callahan’s leadership, the 2023 campaign will be defined by the cohesion of new and old pieces across an overhauled roster. From impact additions like Ridley to high-upside prospects like Levis, this year’s team has no shortage of storylines and potential to capture the imagination of fans across Tennessee and beyond.