As of May 2025, there is no credible ESPN report or any other reputable source confirming that a legendary Tennessee Titans quarterback has been officially honored as the greatest NFL quarterback of all time. However, discussions about the Titans’ most iconic quarterbacks—Steve McNair and Warren Moon—continue to spark debates among fans and analysts.(Titans Wire)
Steve McNair: The Heart and Soul of the Titans
Steve McNair, often referred to as “Air McNair,” was drafted by the Houston Oilers in 1995 and became the cornerstone of the franchise after its relocation to Tennessee. He led the Titans to their only Super Bowl appearance in 2000, narrowly losing to the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXIV. McNair was known for his toughness, dual-threat abilities, and leadership on and off the field. In 2003, he was named co-MVP of the NFL, sharing the honor with Peyton Manning. His legacy is so significant that the Titans retired his No. 9 jersey in 2019.(Wikipedia, Titans Wire)
Warren Moon: A Trailblazer in the NFL
Warren Moon, who played for the Oilers from 1984 to 1993, is another legendary figure in the franchise’s history. He amassed over 33,000 passing yards during his tenure and was a six-time Pro Bowler. Moon was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, becoming the first African-American quarterback to receive this honor. In April 2025, Moon made headlines by un-retiring his No. 1 jersey to allow the Titans’ 2025 first-round draft pick, Cam Ward, to wear it, symbolizing the passing of the torch to a new generation.
The Debate: McNair vs. Moon
While both quarterbacks had illustrious careers, the debate over who is the greatest in franchise history often centers on McNair’s postseason success versus Moon’s prolific passing yards. McNair’s leadership and ability to perform in high-pressure situations endeared him to fans and solidified his status as a franchise legend. On the other hand, Moon’s impressive statistics and groundbreaking role as an African-American quarterback have left an indelible mark on the league.(Titans Wire)
Looking Ahead: Cam Ward’s Potential
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Titans selected quarterback Cam Ward as the No. 1 overall pick, signaling a new era for the franchise. Ward, who had an outstanding college career at Miami, is seen as a potential successor to McNair and Moon. However, analysts have expressed concerns about his transition to the NFL, citing issues with decision-making and consistency. Despite these concerns, the Titans are hopeful that Ward can live up to the legacy of his predecessors. (talkSPORT)
Conclusion
While there is no official recognition naming a Tennessee Titans quarterback as the greatest NFL quarterback of all time, both Steve McNair and Warren Moon are celebrated as two of the most influential figures in the franchise’s history. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike. As Cam Ward embarks on his professional journey, only time will tell if he can add to the storied history of Titans quarterbacks
