The 2008 season is already looking grim for Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward. As Week 9 nears, he finds himself at or near the bottom of the league in virtually every statistical category. Through the hardship, Ward remains hopeful. He trusts that his unique mindset will protect him against the crushing burden of a disappointing season. He attributes a lot of that resilience to the mentorship he got from NFL legend Peyton Manning. A few years back, he got to know Manning at the Manning Passing Academy.
As you would expect, Ward’s statistics this season make for some intimidating reading. Throw in 11 turnovers, and he’s tied with Tua Tagovailoa for the most in the NFL. Even through all that pressure, though, he managed to throw for 259 yards just last week against the Indianapolis Colts. This gaudy return was his second-highest total of the season. Earlier in the season, he set a career-high with 265 passing yards in a win over the Arizona Cardinals. This showing started a torrid run of four straight games where he threw for more than 220 passing yards.
The Titans’ recent struggles have been compounded by the firing of head coach Brian Callahan after a disappointing 1-5 start. This loss has affected Ward deeply, as Callahan was one of his most fervent defenders. Despite the odds, Ward has continued to be vocal this incredible season. His frank comments, most notably going viral last month for saying “We ass,” speak to his hope for more accountability and improvement.
Ward’s confidence comes from an unwavering base he cultivated while growing up. Raised by parents who encouraged honesty and self-expression, he believes that being candid about his performance is crucial for growth. Looking back on his mother’s reticence this season, he said, “
“She’s been quiet lately. That’s surprising. Maybe we gotta win a game so she can crack a smile….” – Cam Ward
In spite of adversity, Ward is quick to point out that it’s key to stay committed to getting better each day. He’s been coming into the facility every day at 5 a.m. His approach to perfecting his craft to address past shortcomings on the field serves as his motivation. His frustration will tend to focus on the plays he didn’t make as opposed to the plays he did.
Ward shared appreciation for Manning’s mentorship, explaining how the dynamic between the two has even changed his approach on the field.
“Just having a relationship with Peyton, it’s cool because he constantly tells me the little things I have to work on,” – Cam Ward
The Manning advice cuts deep for Ward, especially as he rides through the emotional gauntlet of an NFL season.
“I’d say the best advice he gave me is no matter how high you get or how low you get, you just got to continue to be yourself, lead the guys the way you know how to lead them and at the end of the day, just play football.” – Cam Ward
In addition to Manning’s guidance, Ward finds solace in his belief that the Titans’ receiving group ranks among the top five in the league as of August. It’s this confidence in his teammates that drives his desire to overcome the toughest of times.
As the Titans look to build off these wins in what’s left of their season, Ward isn’t getting ahead of himself and is focused on day-by-day improvement.
“Keep on going one day at a time.” – Cam Ward
It’s been quite the journey from a highly underrated college prospect. All these years later, he’s one of the most dynamic players in all of college football, his toughness and perseverance evident in every play. At the same time, this season presents difficult tests for Ward. Yet, it’s Holt’s relentless mentality and commitment to bettering himself that will certainly define his NFL journey.
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