Cam Ward’s one trait that makes NFL veteran Chris Long confident he’ll be one of ‘the most popular NFL football players’ in 2026 season for Titans
There’s one thing about Titans QB Cam Ward that former pass rusher Chris Long highlighted in a recent episode of his show “Go Long”, and it’s why veterans believe in him to lead Tennessee.
Year 2 for Cam Ward may very well be what the arc of his career is most shaped by. As the first overall pick, it’s not likely the Titans would move on from him before Year 3. That would take something pretty catastrophic happening. But what he shows in this second campaign will paint his image as a franchise quarterback going forward. He needs to take some steps and win some games.
When you ask veteran players about the young passer, their confidence is overwhelming. But why is it that these grown men who have seen what both the good and the bad look like in this league are already so sure of Cam? Chris Long hit the nail on the head in his latest podcast episode.
NFL veteran explains why he’s confident Cam Ward will succeed
On “Go Long with Chris Long”, the titular host went on a rant about why he’s buying as much Cam Ward stock as he can get his hands on.
“I think that Cam Ward is going to be one of the most popular NFL football players by the end of his second year in the league,” Long declared, repeating “Ward is going to be one of the most popular NFL football players by the end of his second year in the league, because I just think he’s got it. I just love… he’s such an adult, dude. He’s such an adult, but he’s still interesting. And he has a howitzer for an arm.”
The arm talent and creative ability of Ward is what’s most attractive between the whistles. But for an experienced veteran like Long, the was Ward carries himself the rest of the time is just as impactful as well. He’s young, but he’s extremely buttoned-up. He handles his business like a true pro. Guys like Long, most notably the ones actually on Ward’s team, seem to have zero questions about him being a responsible leader. And when you combine that adult approach with immense raw talent, it’s easy to feel like you found a winner before they’ve fully proven themselves.
Long was also excited about what the Titans’ latest first round pick Carnell Tate will do for Ward this Fall. “If this kid that they drafted in the top 10 looks as good as he does in pictures on the field, you see the picture of him today floating around the internet? People were like, this is what a top-10 wide receiver looks like. He just looks the part and he’s an Ohio statewide receiver.”
Tate has passed the initial eye test with flying colors so far. There’s no doubt in my mind that he’s going to make Ward’s life easier immediately.
“I’m biting the cheese. I think their win total is probably like 7, or 6.5? I am biting the cheese.” Chris Long is one of many who are taking Tennessee’s over win total, and that’s in large part thanks to a general trust in Ward taking a Year 2 leap. Now, he just has to deliver.