Will Levis criticized by ex-Titans star after shoulder surgery rules him out of 2025 NFL season
Levis initially sprained his AC joint in Week 4 vs. the Dolphins last year before returning to the field after the Titans' Week 5 bye.
The quarterback later sat from Weeks 7 to 9 but ultimately finished a difficult season under center with 12 starts. He later participated in OTAs and minicamp this offseason.
However, Levis has now elected to undergo surgery on his shoulder issue, and former Titans offensive tackle Taylor Lewan couldn't quite understand the timing of the move.
'I'm sure there's a side to the story that explains why Will waited until late July to get this surgery,' he wrote on X.
'Unfortunately, im too dumb to figure out what that is.'
The Titans announced on their website that Levis' surgery was set for Tuesday - which is also the first day of their training camp - and released a statement in support of the young passer.
'After consulting with doctors and his representatives, Will Levis has decided to undergo shoulder surgery that will sideline him for the entire 2025 season. We support his decision to focus on his long-term health,' the team said.
'He approached the offseason with professionalism and showed clear growth as a leader. We remain confident in his full recovery.'
Citing an anonymous source, ESPN reported that Levis experienced discomfort during minicamp before starting to look into his medical options.
He had reportedly hoped before that the injury would heal itself with rest and rehab.
Levis also spoke in May about 'relearning his stroke' with personal quarterback coach Jordan Palmer, whom he worked with in California.
While Ward - the No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft - was always expected to be the team's starter - Levis' surgery leaves the team thin behind him.
Tim Boyle and Brandon Allen have limited experience starting, though Allen produced a respectable 199-yard, one touchdown, one interception start for the 49ers last year.
Allen has 10 career stats, while Boyle has just five.
At what was likely less than full health, Levis struggled last season in his sophomore campaign.
He posted just a 2-10 record under center and turned the ball over 18 times (six fumbles, 12 interceptions) while throwing 13 touchdowns.
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