Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis sensed something was amiss during his play-action passes. During OTAs last month, he shared his observation with his new coach, Brian Callahan. Levis noticed excessive foot movement and felt the need to be “more stationary.” This led to a post-practice discussion.
Levis, dedicated to refining his mechanics, continually seeks to understand the relationship between his techniques and their outcomes. “I’ve never seen anyone so attuned to his mechanical details,” commented offensive coordinator Nick Holz.
Reflecting on his rookie season, where he became the starter after seven games, Levis recalled discomfort with his throwing mechanics. “Quarterbacks are always tweaking things, feeling like something’s off. The ball wasn’t coming out right, so I started investigating potential causes,” he said at the start of minicamp.
The decision to adjust his mechanics became a collaborative effort involving Levis, Callahan, Holz, and quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree. Levis’ personal coach, Rob Williams of QB Motion, will also contribute this summer.
After reviewing Levis’ game film, the team identified specific areas for improvement, focusing on these throughout spring and summer. “We’ve emphasized the importance of a strong base for Will,” Callahan noted. “Playing on time and getting the ball out quickly is crucial.”
Callahan highlighted Levis’ naturally quick release but stressed the need for disciplined footwork and a consistent base. Key areas include refining footwork at the top of the drop and taking shorter first steps. This, combined with Levis’ quick release, will enhance his timing within Callahan’s system.
Callahan’s offensive scheme draws from various systems he’s been part of, featuring quarterbacks like Peyton Manning, Matthew Stafford, and Joe Burrow. Levis watches footage of these players to understand how a solid base can improve timing.
Hardegree, who spent significant time with Levis during OTAs and minicamp, has been pivotal in implementing the targeted adjustments. He uses drills involving small bags thrown at the quarterbacks’ feet to help them tie lower body movement with play timing.
The results have been promising, with Levis connecting for two touchdowns in the final OTA practice. However, there’s still room for improvement, as seen in some late deep passes during minicamp.
Callahan appreciates Levis’ coachability and his dedication to applying feedback. Levis is also encouraged to make suggestions, demonstrating his deep understanding of his mechanics. “He’s a guy who can feel when something’s off,” Hardegree said.
Levis credits his personal coach, Rob Williams, for helping him transition from an arm thrower to a full-body passer. Williams emphasizes footwork and rotary mechanics to enhance power and accuracy.
During a passing camp in Nashville, Levis and other quarterbacks focused on establishing a strong base before moving on to throwing drills. This method highlights the importance of lower body mechanics in generating power.
Williams believes that consistent communication with the Titans’ coaching staff is crucial. He plans to spend time in Nashville working with Levis and will also conduct remote sessions to oversee Levis’ progress.
Levis aims to resume work with Williams after some family downtime, having already started a retreat with his receivers in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
In his first year, Levis recorded 1,808 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions in nine games. Both Levis and the Titans recognize that their success hinges on his continued development. Williams is focused on refining Levis’ mechanics to ensure more efficient and effective performance.