Cam Ward To Wear Warren Moon’s Retired No. 1 Jersey
On one of the greatest draft nights in “Music City” history, Cam Ward not only became the Tennessee Titans’ next face, but he also became the first person in nearly 20 years to wear the best jersey number in franchise history. The Miami quarterback was drafted by the Titans at No. 1 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Soon after, he was handed an emblem of greatness. Warren Moon’s retired No. 1.
It was a moment that electrified Titans fans and cemented Ward’s place in franchise lore before he’d ever dropped back to take a snap. Not only will he almost certainly be the franchise face for years to come, but now he’ll carry the burden of having the Hall of Fame legacy on his shoulders every time he steps onto the field.
The Titans’ Risk: Taking Ward At No. 1
Tennessee’s choice of Ward marked the end of months of extensive scouting and scrutiny. Tennessee’s front office traveled coast to coast, meeting with elite quarterback prospects, but Ward was the one who stood out. From his Pro Day at Miami to a private session in Nashville, he made a lasting impression on Titans personnel with his arm talent, poise, and football intelligence.
A one-time zero-star signee, the stud QB’s rise to stardom has been nothing less than remarkable. After dominating at Incarnate Word, then Washington State, and finally Miami, he threw for over 4,300 yards and 39 touchdowns in his one year with the Hurricanes. His college career, which was characterized by resilience and growth, made him the ideal choice to lead the Titans into a new era as the number one pick.
Warren Moon Unretires His Iconic No. 1
Ward created headlines again shortly after having been drafted, when he walked onto the stage wearing a Titans No. 1 jersey. A number retired in 2006 in Moon’s name. But what was thought to be a dream became a reality: Moon approved. In a sentimental and unusual gesture, the Hall of Famer unretired his number for Ward.
Moon, never a Titan, but suited up for their predecessors, the Houston Oilers. He has long been revered by the franchise. His decision to leave the number to Ward was not an easy one. Ward reported that he had called Moon a month before the draft and requested to wear the number in case Tennessee drafted his name. Moon, after due consideration, came on board. He even shocked Ward by handing him the jersey during his initial press conference.
Final Thoughts
Ward’s tale already has the makings of a fairytale. Now, with a legend’s weight on his shoulders and the trust of a franchise in his care, he’ll seek to pen the next chapter of greatness in Titans history. Wearing No. 1 isn’t a number — it’s a crusade. And in Tennessee, the crusade begins today.
