The Tennessee Titans are handing the keys to Cam Ward, the first overall pick in April’s draft. However, he hasn’t exactly been the most celebrated No. 1 pick in NFL history. Since the beginning, Ward has flown under the radar more than most top selections.
“He's the least talked about, under-the-radar No. 1 pick I think in the history of football... Let's go back to last year's draft. He would've been in the mix... I think he would've been my 3rd QB,” analyst Chris Simms said.
Ward has been working hard in training camp, often arriving at the facility as early as 5 a.m. Despite his commitment and quiet work ethic, Ward admits he still doesn’t feel fully embraced by the NFL community.
“I don’t think I’m being welcomed in [the league] with open arms,” Ward said. “I was the first pick. I’m blessed to be that. But at the end of the day, there’s a target on my back. There’s a target on everyone’s back in the league, but I’m trying to prove myself to my teammates.”
Ward was recently given a 71 overall rating in Madden—something that sparked outrage from former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III.
“Cam Ward is the most disrespected QB #1 overall Pick EVER,” Griffin wrote. “I know it’s just a Madden Ranking, but Cam Ward having a 71 rating and not even being a top 10 rated rookie in the game as the 1st Pick in the NFL draft and the lack of national media coverage of him solidifies it.”
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On Thursday, Ward opened up about why he arrives at the facility so early.—a reason rooted in family and perspective.
“I’ve grown up watching my dad wake up at 4:30 doing the job he didn’t like, so if I can’t wake up early and do what I need to do, I shouldn’t be playing football,” Ward said.
Ward’s words show that he’s internalized the lessons from his upbringing. What he saw as a child has shaped his professional mindset and work ethic, forming a foundation he now brings to his career as an NFL quarterback.