Titans Grapple with No. 1 Pick: A Deep Dive into Options and a Potential Trade

The Tennessee Titans find themselves in a pivotal position. With the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, the franchise stands at a crossroads, poised to potentially reshape its future. Though the clock hasn’t officially started, the pressure is mounting for the organization to solidify its plan for this invaluable asset amidst a significant rebuild.

Fresh off the NFL Scouting Combine, the Titans are embarking on a series of crucial meetings with potential draftees. According to various reports, Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter was the first to visit, followed by Miami (Fla.) quarterback Cam Ward. Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders is slated for a meeting next week, and his former teammate, two-way star Travis Hunter, is also on the schedule for later this month.

But looming large over all these evaluations is the very real possibility that the Titans opt for an alternative route: trading out of the top spot altogether. This scenario adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate decision-making process.

"We have to go through this process here," stated new Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi at the combine, emphasizing the importance of thoroughness. "So, this is like one touch point in the process. We’ve gone through the whole evaluation part. Now we’re finally getting to sit down and meet with these guys and talk with them. We’ll have pro days, we’ll have (top 30) visits. We have to go through the whole process really to make that decision."

Borgonzi inherits a Titans franchise that has been plagued by instability for the past three years. The controversial trade of star receiver A.J. Brown in April 2022, the subsequent firing of general manager Jon Robinson in December of that year, and the more recent dismissal of head coach Mike Vrabel in January 2024 all paint a picture of disconnect and turmoil within the organization.

Now, with Borgonzi replacing Ran Carthon as general manager, the Titans are striving to establish a unified vision. Coach Brian Callahan’s first season was marred by both on-field mistakes and roster composition issues, underscoring the need for a cohesive approach.

"I think (the players) are excited for the new process we have in place, player acquisition," Borgonzi commented. "You can feel the want-to to be better, and they want to be a part of it. They want us to get this roster right and do something special."

The upcoming free agency period will likely provide valuable insights into the Titans’ draft strategy. A key decision involves whether to acquire a veteran quarterback to challenge or supplant current starter Will Levis. Levis, despite starting only 12 games, tied for the league lead in turnovers last season, raising serious concerns about the long-term stability of the position.

"We have to solidify that position," Borgonzi acknowledged. "And we have Will on the roster right now, and he’s going to compete with whoever we bring in. We have one quarterback on the roster, so we’re bringing people in."

With the quarterback situation a central focus, let’s examine the Titans’ top options for the No. 1 pick, ranked from least to most appealing, based on the current information.

3. Shedeur Sanders, Quarterback, Colorado:

While quarterback is often the default starting point for No. 1 pick discussions, Sanders might be the least likely option for the Titans. His accuracy and poise under pressure are undeniable, qualities that Levis has struggled with. However, questions linger about his arm strength, a concern that Callahan addressed by drawing parallels to Joe Burrow, suggesting that compensatory strategies can be employed.

Despite Callahan’s openness to this potential, he also emphasized the importance of a minimum threshold for arm strength, a standard Sanders might not meet. His tendency to hold onto the ball for too long exacerbates pressure, a particularly concerning trait given the Titans’ acknowledged offensive line deficiencies.

Sanders’ strengths arguably align with a timing-based offense, which relies on all elements functioning seamlessly. Given the uncertainty surrounding the Titans’ roster, Sanders’ potential impact appears less assured.

2. Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver, Colorado:

The mention of a "generational talent" by Titans president Chad Brinker immediately sparked discussions about Hunter’s unique abilities. Hunter is a true two-way player, excelling as both a receiver and a cornerback. His final season at Colorado showcased his exceptional versatility, with over 1,200 receiving yards and four interceptions on defense.

Callahan expressed interest in exploring Hunter’s potential on both sides of the ball, recognizing his unmatched ability to play at a high level on both offense and defense.

However, the positional value of a cornerback as the No. 1 overall pick presents a challenge. No cornerback has ever been selected first overall, and given the Titans’ myriad needs and the inherent volatility of cornerback performance, selecting Hunter might not be the most efficient allocation of resources. It is expected the Titans would start him at cornerback.

1. (Tie) Abdul Carter, Edge Rusher, Penn State AND Cam Ward, Quarterback, Miami (FLA):

Both Carter and Ward provide compelling, but ultimately different, arguments for the top spot.

Abdul Carter: Carter has emerged as a top-tier pass rusher in a draft class rich with defensive talent. His transition from linebacker to defensive end resulted in 12 sacks and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors. While he sat out combine workouts due to a stress fracture, the Titans already have a solid understanding of his abilities.

While Tennessee ranked 12th in pass-rush win rate, their edge rush could benefit from additional investment. Harold Landry III has been given permission to seek a trade, and Arden Key is entering the final year of his contract.

However, even a dominant pass rusher, as evidenced by Myles Garrett’s limited playoff success with the Browns, cannot single-handedly transform a team with widespread issues.

Cam Ward: Ward’s trajectory has been impressive. After showing promise at Incarnate Word and Washington State, he transferred to Miami and became a breakout star. He now stands out as a quarterback who is unlikely to fall outside the top three picks.

Ward’s willingness to take risks might seem at odds with Callahan’s preference for sound decision-making. However, Callahan has stressed the importance of tailoring the system to the player’s strengths.

Ward’s ability to make plays both within structure and when improvising provides him with the highest ceiling of any quarterback in this class. A lack of offensive stability might prevent Ward from reaching his full potential early on.

The Trade Option:

The Titans have been open about their willingness to listen to trade offers for the No. 1 pick. With quarterback-needy teams like the New York Giants potentially interested, the Titans could trade down to No. 3. This could allow them to still secure Carter or Hunter while acquiring additional assets.

The Titans have experience with trading down from the top spot, as they did in 2016. While the return they receive this year might not be as substantial, it could still provide them with the resources to address multiple needs.

Ultimately, the Titans’ decision will depend on their evaluation of the available talent, their assessment of the team’s current needs, and their willingness to take risks. The next few weeks will be critical as they gather more information and weigh their options. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of the franchise.