The Titans are open to dealing the first choice in the 2025 NFL Draft and anticipate calls.
The Tennessee Titans, holding the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, are reportedly open to trading the selection and are anticipating inquiries from other teams.
This development has sparked significant interest across the league, as the Titans’ decision could reshape the draft landscape and influence team strategies.
Titans’ Draft Strategy and Potential Trade Considerations
The Titans’ openness to trading the top pick stems from their desire to maximize the value of their draft assets. General Manager Mike Borgonzi emphasized the importance of building through the draft, stating, “We need to build that core foundation of players really to change the culture, and that takes a little bit of time.”
By potentially trading down, the Titans could acquire additional picks, allowing them to address multiple roster needs and expedite their rebuilding process.
However, the Titans have also made it clear that they will not pass on a “generational talent” with the first pick. President of Football Operations Chad Brinker remarked, “We won’t pass on a generational talent with the first pick in the NFL draft.”
This statement suggests that if the Titans identify a prospect they believe can significantly impact their franchise, they may choose to retain the pick and select that player.
Top Prospects and Team Evaluations
The Titans have narrowed their focus to several top prospects, inviting them to Nashville for further evaluation. These include Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter, Colorado’s Travis Hunter (a versatile cornerback/wide receiver), and quarterbacks Cam Ward (Miami) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado).
These players have undergone preliminary interviews at the NFL Scouting Combine and are scheduled to visit the Titans’ facility this month.
The Titans’ evaluation process will be crucial in determining whether they view any of these prospects as “generational talents.” If they do, they may opt to use the first overall pick rather than trading it. Conversely, if they assess that multiple prospects have similar grades, they might consider trading down to acquire additional picks while still securing a top talent.
League-Wide Implications and Potential Trade Partners
The Titans’ willingness to trade the first overall pick has significant implications for other teams seeking to draft a franchise quarterback. The Cleveland Browns, holding the second overall pick, and the New York Giants, with the third pick, both have pressing quarterback needs. The Giants, in particular, are reportedly keen to move up to the No. 1 spot to secure a top quarterback, potentially offering substantial assets to the Titans in exchange for the pick.
Other quarterback-needy teams, such as the Las Vegas Raiders (sixth overall pick), New York Jets (seventh overall pick), and New Orleans Saints (ninth overall pick), could also emerge as potential trade partners. The Jets, for instance, are actively seeking a solution to their longstanding quarterback dilemma, especially with the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback market and the departure of veteran Aaron Rodgers.
Historical Context and Potential Trade Value
The last time the No. 1 overall pick was traded occurred in 2023 when the Chicago Bears dealt the selection to the Carolina Panthers. In return, the Bears received four draft picks, including two first-rounders, and veteran wide receiver DJ Moore.
This precedent indicates that trading the top pick can yield a substantial return, providing the Titans with the opportunity to acquire multiple high-value assets to bolster their roster.
