The Tennessee Titans selected University of Miami quarterback Cam Ward with the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft Thursday night, officially beginning a new era for the franchise.
Ward’s selection followed months of extensive evaluation by Titans officials, who met with him during a pre-draft visit, the NFL Combine, Miami’s Pro Day, and a private workout where Ward first met team owner Amy Adams Strunk.
“It was really good, meeting Miss Amy for the first time,” Ward said. “Getting a chance to actually put a face with a name, hear about her family, and the history of the Oilers. It’s a good organization.”
Ward made his preference clear before the draft, saying: “I am excited to hopefully hear my name called first, to go to a good organization like that. They have a great owner, great GM, and a great team that doesn’t get enough credit.”
At Miami’s Pro Day, Ward impressed Titans brass, telling them after a strong throwing session: “I told them I was solidifying it today.”
In 2024, Ward threw for 4,313 yards and a school-record 39 touchdown passes, earning ACC Player of the Year honors. Across stints at Incarnate Word, Washington State, and Miami, Ward set an NCAA record with 158 career touchdown passes.
General Manager Mike Borgonzi praised Ward’s growth and resilience. “He’s gotten better over the years. He’s wired right for the position,” Borgonzi said. Titans head coach Brian Callahan said: “He has the right mix of personality and seriousness. He’s focused and determined.”
President of Football Operations Chad Brinker said: “Cam’s confident, but he carries himself the right way. His approach to the game and his competitiveness stood out.”
Just a month ago, Ward said: “If Tennessee gets me, I’ll be happy to be there for sure.”
Now he is, officially a Titan.
Titans draft picks:
Round 1 (No. 1): QB Cam Ward, Miami
Round 2 (No. 52): Edge Oluwafemi Oladejo, UCLA
Round 3 (No. 82): S. Kevin Winston, Jr., Penn State
Round 4 (No. 103): WR Chimere Dike, Florida
Round 4 (No. 120): TE Gunnar Helm, Texas
Round 4 (No. 136): WR Elic Ayomanor, Stanford
Round 5 (No. 167): OG Jackson Slater, Sacramento State
