This is usually something very rare at NFL training camps. Quarterbacks are never in the middle of fights, let alone starting them. Last week, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr got into it with some Tennessee Titans defenders during joint practices. Penix Jr was reportedly in the middle of the pile, with teammates rushing in to his aid.
This week, the Titans are fighting once again, but this time amongst themselves. It just so happens that No.1 overall pick Cam Ward was in the middle of a scuffle with star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, according to Turron Davenport of ESPN.
Ward threw a touchdown pass to Calvin Ridley toward the end of practice and went to celebrate. The rookie quarterback stopped and gave Simmons a shove before doing his trademark “Zombieland” celebration in front of him. Simmons reacted with a two-hand push to Ward’s facemask, and the offensive line ran to Ward’s defense.
Davenport mentioned that the Titans’ offensive line immediately rushed to Ward’s defense, knocking Simmons’ helmet off in the process. Practice would end two plays later, with head coach Brian Callahan having the team run after tempers flared.
Ward didn’t play much during preseason Week 1, but completed 5/8 passes for 67 yards in a 29-7 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Week 2 was much better for the Titans, who won 23-20 against the Falcons. Ward went 2/7 for 42 yards, but had some crazy throws in the process that went incomplete. While the Titans obviously don’t want their rookie quarterback in the middle of practice scrums, it’s good to see the competitive fire between some of their best players.
The Titans close out the preseason on Friday against the Minnesota Vikings.