Levis Out for the Season: Titans Quarterback Undergoes Shoulder Surgery

Levis Primed for Titans QB Battle Amidst Key Injury News

NASHVILLE, TN – With the Tennessee Titans gearing up for training camp, all eyes are on the quarterback room where a heated competition for the starting job is brewing. Following a challenging rookie season, second-year signal-caller Will Levis appears to have put a shoulder injury behind him and is ready to vie for the top spot against incumbent Malik Willis.

Levis, who returned from injury last season to a difficult outing against the Indianapolis Colts, leading to him missing further games and finishing with a 2-10 record as a starter, has shown promising signs. During Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp, Levis demonstrated no ill effects from his shoulder, splitting first-team repetitions with Willis.His dedication during the offseason, including training with personal quarterback coach Jordan Palmer, focused on refining his footwork and “relearning his stroke,” suggesting a commitment to improvement. this renewed focus could prove crucial as Levis aims to solidify his place as the Titans’ franchise quarterback.

The quarterback competition is not happening in a vacuum, as other significant developments are shaping the titans’ roster outlook. Two key starters, cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and centre Lloyd Cushenberry III, are slated to begin training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Sneed, recovering from a quad injury that ended his 2024 season prematurely, has expressed confidence in his recovery, stating he’s “healthy as I’ve been.” Cushenberry, who suffered a torn Achilles in Week 9 last year, is also diligently working his way back and remains optimistic about a season-opening return against his former team, the Denver Broncos.

Adding to the intrigue is the status of wide receiver Treylon Burks, a 2022 first-round pick. Burks is expected to be ready for training camp after tearing an ACL last October. While he participated in individual drills during OTAs and minicamp, his readiness to handle a full workload remains a point of keen observation. Entering a contract year,Burks’ performance this season will be critical for his future with the team.

Evergreen Insight: The NFL is a league where development is rarely linear. Quarterbacks, in particular, often experience a steep learning curve in their initial seasons. Will Levis’s commitment to offseason work and addressing his physical recovery is a positive indicator, but it’s the consistent execution and ability to lead the offense that will ultimately define his success. furthermore, the importance of depth and resilience cannot be overstated. As the Titans navigate the offseason and into training camp, the ability of key players returning from injury to regain their form, and the performance of those stepping up in their absence, will be critical factors in the team’s overall trajectory. The narrative surrounding Levis and the Titans is one of potential and overcoming adversity,a story that resonates throughout the league season after season.

What is the typical recovery timeframe following arthroscopic labral repair surgery, and how might this impact Will Levis’ participation in the 2026 offseason program?

Surgery Details & Recovery Timeline

Tennessee Titans quarterback, Will Levis, will miss the remainder of the 2025 NFL season after undergoing successful surgery too repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder. The surgery, performed by Dr. James Andrews on July 21st, 2025, addressed an injury sustained during the titans’ final minicamp practice.

Procedure: Arthroscopic labral repair. This minimally invasive technique aims to stabilize the shoulder joint and alleviate pain.

Recovery Timeframe: The typical recovery for a torn labrum repair is 6-9 months. This timeline means Levis is unlikely to be fully cleared for football activities until late February or March of 2026, potentially impacting the start of the 2026 offseason program.

Post-Surgery Protocol: Initial recovery will focus on pain management, immobilization in a sling, and early range-of-motion exercises. Rehabilitation will progress through phases, including strengthening, proprioception (balance and coordination), and eventually, throwing drills.

Impact on the Titans’ 2025 Season

Levis’ absence considerably alters the Titans’ outlook for the upcoming season. He showed flashes of potential during his rookie campaign in 2024, but the shoulder injury, initially considered a minor strain, proved to be more severe.

Starting Quarterback: Veteran Gardner Minshew,recently signed in free agency,is now expected to take the reins as the starting quarterback. Minshew brings experience and a solid track record as a capable backup, but represents a clear downgrade in potential ceiling compared to a healthy Levis.

Offensive Strategy Adjustments: Head Coach Brian Callahan will likely adjust the offensive game plan to better suit Minshew’s strengths – primarily short to intermediate passing and quick decision-making. Expect a more conservative approach, minimizing deep throws and relying heavily on the running game.

Fantasy Football Implications: Levis’ injury drastically lowers the fantasy value of Titans’ wide receivers like DeAndre Hopkins and Treylon Burks. Minshew’s presence will likely limit their big-play opportunities.

Understanding Labrum Tears in Athletes

A labrum tear is a common injury among overhead athletes, particularly those involved in throwing sports like baseball, softball, and football. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket,providing stability and cushioning.

Causes: Repetitive overhead motions, sudden impacts, and dislocations can all contribute to labrum tears. In Levis’ case, the injury likely stemmed from the cumulative stress of throwing combined with a specific incident during practice.

Symptoms: Symptoms of a labrum tear include:

1.Pain in the shoulder, often described as a dull ache.

2. Clicking,popping,or grinding sensations in the shoulder.

3. A feeling of instability or looseness in the shoulder.

4. Decreased range of motion.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, MRI, and potentially an arthroscopic evaluation.

Recent NFL Quarterback Shoulder Injuries

Levis isn’t alone in facing shoulder injury setbacks. Several high-profile NFL quarterbacks have dealt with similar issues in recent years.

Patrick Mahomes (2019): Mahomes suffered a dislocated shoulder in 2019, requiring a brief period of recovery but ultimately returning to lead the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory.

Dak Prescott (2020): Prescott suffered a compound fracture and dislocation of his right ankle in 2020, requiring surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process. While not a shoulder injury, it highlights the impact of critically important injuries on quarterback performance.

Joe Burrow (2023): Burrow sustained a wrist injury in 2023 that required surgery and sidelined him for the remainder of the season. This underscores the fragility of key players and the importance of depth.

Titans’ QB Depth Chart Post-Levis

With Levis sidelined, the Titans’ quarterback room looks significantly different.