Cam Ward’s journey to the NFL’s top pick hit an emotional milestone Friday when Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon personally handed him the No. 1 jersey, a number long retired by the franchise.
The Tennessee Titans, who selected Ward first overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, made the presentation at Ward’s introductory press conference. It was a moment few expected as Moon’s No. 1, retired after his legendary career with the Houston Oilers, had been shelved for decades.
“I came here today because I have a lot of respect for this young man,” Moon said. “Our journeys are very similar: he was doubted, overlooked and told he wasn’t good enough. But he kept fighting, he showed leadership and perseverance. And here he is today, the No. 1 overall pick.”
Moon reflected on his own reasons for wearing the number and expressed confidence in Ward’s ability to carry the torch.
“I wore No. 1 proudly starting in college back in 1976. I wore it honorably for the Houston Oilers and built a Hall of Fame career. Now, Cam will wear No. 1 for the Tennessee Titans. Bringing a new energy and helping revitalize this organization,” Moon said.
Ward had reached out to Moon about a month ago to ask permission to wear the iconic number. Still, he was stunned to receive the jersey personally from Moon during his first appearance in Nashville.
“I’m excited that Mr. Moon blessed me with this number,” Ward said. “But to me, the number itself doesn’t define anything. It’s about the plays you make. The player makes the number, not the other way around.”
Speaking later with NFL Network’s Sara Walsh, Ward made it clear that he feels no added pressure stepping into Moon’s legendary shoes.
“I don’t feel any weight on my shoulders,” Ward said. “I’m still that zero-star recruit who was doubted. That never leaves my mind, it drives me every day. I’m just ready to work with my teammates.”
Ward’s climb from an overlooked recruit to the No. 1 overall pick is already one of football’s great modern stories. He set an NCAA record with 158 career passing touchdowns during his five-year college career, culminating in a standout season at Miami.
Now, as he joins the Titans, Ward is focused on the next step: building chemistry with his new teammates and mastering the timing and precision needed to excel in the NFL.
“Timing and ball placement beat perfect coverage,” Ward explained. “So I think the biggest thing is getting on the same page with my receivers, the O-line and the whole offense. Communication is key.”
With a fresh start, a legendary number on his back and a Hall of Famer’s blessing. Cam Ward is ready to write the next chapter of his story and perhaps one day etch his name alongside the Titans’ all-time greats.
