Should I keep or trade? What we’re hearing about the Titans’ plans at No. 1

The Tennessee Titans hold the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a position that offers both significant opportunity and strategic complexity. As the draft approaches, the Titans face a pivotal decision: retain the top selection to secure a potentially transformative player or trade the pick to amass additional assets for a more comprehensive roster rebuild. This analysis delves into the factors influencing the Titans’ decision-making process, the potential prospects at the top of the draft, and the trade scenarios that could reshape the franchise’s future.

Evaluating the Titans’ Current Position

The Titans concluded the 2024 season with a 3-14 record, tying the franchise’s single-season record for losses. This performance underscores the pressing need for impactful talent across multiple positions. Newly appointed general manager Mike Borgonzi has emphasized a strategic approach to roster construction, stating, “We’ll supplement free agency, but we want to build through the draft. We need to build that core foundation of players really to change the culture, and that takes a little bit of time.”

The quarterback position, in particular, has been a focal point of concern. Will Levis, the team’s current starter, registered the highest percentage of plays resulting in a sack, fumble, or interception since 2009, highlighting the necessity for stability under center.

This situation positions the Titans at a crossroads: should they invest in a top quarterback prospect or leverage the No. 1 pick to address multiple areas of need through a trade?

Top Prospects for the No. 1 Pick

The 2025 draft class features several standout prospects who could immediately impact the Titans:

• Cam Ward (QB, Miami): Widely regarded as the top quarterback in this year’s draft, Ward has drawn comparisons to elite NFL passers due to his arm strength, accuracy, and poise under pressure. His leadership qualities and ability to read defenses make him a compelling option for a franchise seeking a cornerstone at the quarterback position.

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• Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado): The son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur has showcased exceptional athleticism and playmaking abilities. However, recent reports indicate a decline in his draft stock, with concerns arising from unimpressive interviews at the scouting combine and questions about his physical attributes.

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• Travis Hunter (CB/WR, Colorado): A versatile talent, Hunter has excelled on both sides of the ball. His unique skill set as a cornerback and wide receiver offers strategic flexibility, allowing a team to maximize his impact in multiple facets of the game.

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• Abdul Carter (DE, Penn State): Carter’s dominance as an edge rusher has positioned him as one of the top defensive prospects. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses aligns with the Titans’ need to bolster their defensive front.

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Trade Considerations and Potential Partners

Given the Titans’ multiple roster needs, trading the No. 1 pick could be a strategic move to acquire additional draft capital. Historically, teams have secured substantial returns for the top selection. For instance, in 2023, the Chicago Bears traded the first overall pick to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for wide receiver DJ Moore, the ninth overall pick, a second-round pick, a future first-round pick, and a future second-round pick.

Several teams have emerged as potential trade partners:

• New York Giants: Holding the third overall pick, the Giants are reportedly interested in selecting a quarterback, with Cam Ward being a primary target. A trade with the Giants could allow the Titans to remain within the top three selections while acquiring additional assets.

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• New York Jets: With the seventh overall pick and a pressing need for a quarterback, the Jets have expressed interest in moving up. Their willingness to trade up indicates a desire to secure a top-tier quarterback prospect.

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• Las Vegas Raiders: Possessing the sixth overall pick, the Raiders are in the market for a franchise quarterback. Their draft position and asset pool make them a viable trade partner for the Titans.

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Strategic Implications of Keeping vs. Trading the Pick

The decision to keep or trade the No. 1 pick hinges on several factors:

• Immediate Impact vs. Long-Term Rebuild: Selecting a player like Cam Ward could provide an immediate solution at quarterback, potentially accelerating the team’s competitiveness. Conversely, trading the pick for multiple selections could facilitate a more comprehensive rebuild, addressing several positional needs over time.

• Assessment of ‘Generational Talent’: Titans’ president of football operations, Chad Brinker, has emphasized the importance of not passing on a “generational talent.” If the team’s evaluation identifies such a player at No. 1, retaining the pick becomes a more compelling option.

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• Market Dynamics and Trade Value: The willingness of other teams to offer substantial trade packages influences the decision. A lucrative offer could provide the Titans with the resources needed to address multiple areas, making a trade more appealing.