Cam Ward opened Week 2 of the NFL preseason with mixed efficiency, finishing 2-for-7 for 42 yards but showing moments of poise under pressure, including a live-fire throw on the run to Elic Ayomanor and a deep strike to Van Jefferson that just missed. The Titans squeaked out a 23-20 win as they leaned on younger players late, with the off-script moments suggesting upside for Ward when he’s flushed from the pocket and forced to improvise.

Gunnar Helm exploded as a Week 2 standout, snagging four targets for 48 yards and a touchdown, highlighted by contested catches and a strong elite-grade performance that pleased Tennessee’s coaching staff. The Falcons kept starters sheltered, but James Pearce Jr. flashed in the pass rush with three pressures, while Jalon Walker sat out, leaving Pearce to carry the edge-rushing narrative. Joey Slye’s fourth-quarter boot provided the closing margin, sealing the Titans’ win and underscoring how depth pieces can swing late in the preseason.

In a week where data and snap counts were dissected by PFF, the Titans found a few surprise contributors—Helm’s emergence as a reliable target behind the top backups and Ward’s growing toolkit, even amid imperfect accuracy. PFF’s grading and Premium Stats will shape early fantasy interpretations, but the underlying thread is clear: Tennessee is cultivating a deeper bench with real upside as the regular season approaches.