The Tennessee Titans find themselves in a challenging position as they prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft. Holding the coveted No. 1 pick, the team faces pressing questions on both sides of the ball. With an offense that managed a mere 18.3 points per game, ranking 27th in the NFL, and a defense that allowed 27.1 points per game, placing them 30th, the Titans have a lot of ground to cover this offseason.
Assessing the quarterback situation
The Titans are set to have Will Levis returning for the next season, but head coach Brian Callahan made it clear in his season-ending press conference that the search for a franchise quarterback is still on. "Well, we got one quarterback under contract [Levis]. The other two are free agents, and we’re in position to potentially draft a quarterback," Callahan stated. This admission reflects the uncertainty surrounding Levis’s future with the team and the potential need for a more reliable option.
However, the options available in this year’s draft for quarterbacks are limited compared to previous years. Two intriguing prospects are Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, but both come with notable flaws. Sanders struggles with anticipation, which can hinder his decision-making, while Ward has issues with ball security and can be prone to reckless plays. Given these concerns, the Titans may be hesitant to commit to either player for the long term.
Defensive prospects on the radar
As the Titans weigh their options, NFL draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has suggested that they might want to consider a different route. He highlighted Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Abdul Carter as a player worth targeting. Jeremiah noted, "My ears perked up when Titans president of football operations Chad Brinker said the team wouldn’t pass on a generational talent with the first pick. To me, Carter is the best player in the draft and he plays a premium position." This perspective opens the door for the Titans to bolster their defense instead of solely focusing on the quarterback position.
Carter’s impressive performance last season has significantly boosted his draft stock. He recorded 68 tackles, 24 tackles for loss (leading the nation), 12 sacks, four pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. His versatility to play both defensive end and linebacker makes him an attractive option for a Titans defense that has struggled against the run. If the Titans are not fully convinced by the quarterback prospects, Carter could be a game-changing addition.
Exploring multiple strategies for the No. 1 pick
With the No. 1 pick in their hands, the Titans have several strategies to consider. While selecting a quarterback seems like the logical choice, the flaws in the top prospects might make the Titans cautious about investing heavily in a long-term solution, especially after their experience with Levis.
Another viable option is to focus on improving their defense, which has proven to be a more pressing issue than the offense. The Titans have been vulnerable against the run, and drafting a defensive lineman could help solidify that area. This would allow them to address the quarterback situation later in the draft or through free agency, ensuring they do not rush into a decision that could haunt them for years.
Additionally, the Titans could explore the possibility of trading down from the top pick. The 2025 draft is expected to be rich in defensive talent, particularly in the first round. By trading down, the Titans could acquire multiple first-round picks, allowing them to fill several roster holes while still addressing their quarterback dilemma.
Improving the offensive line
Another crucial aspect the Titans must consider is their offensive line, which struggled to protect Levis throughout the season. If they decide to dangle the No. 1 overall pick, they could attract teams looking to secure a top quarterback. Acquiring two first-round picks this year, along with additional early picks in the future, could provide the Titans with the resources needed to rebuild effectively.
As the Titans navigate this offseason, they must weigh their options carefully. The decision they make with the No. 1 pick could shape the future of the franchise for years to come. Will they prioritize finding a new quarterback, bolster their defense with a generational talent like Carter, or explore trade opportunities to maximize their draft capital? The answers to these questions will be pivotal as the Titans look to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming season.
In the world of college football and the NFL draft, every decision counts. The Titans have a unique opportunity to redefine their roster and set a new course for success. As they prepare for the draft, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Titans choose to navigate this critical juncture in their franchise history.
