The Tennessee Titans’ general manager, Mike Borgonzi, became a focal point during the recent NFL combine, thanks to the team holding the coveted No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft. While it is still early in the selection process, team insiders indicate that the Titans remain undecided on how to utilize their top draft choice. With free agency looming next week, the acquisition of a veteran quarterback could influence their draft strategy significantly. However, the Titans’ leadership has expressed confidence in the strong set of players available at the top of the draft.
Quarterback Landscape in Nashville
Tennessee joins several quarterback-needy franchises within the top 10 picks. Notably, Shedeur Sanders from Colorado and Cam Ward from Miami are the two signal-callers viewed as top-10 talents. The Titans have taken the opportunity to meet with both quarterbacks at the combine and have plans to bring them to Nashville for further evaluations. Additionally, Penn State’s defensive end Abdul Carter and Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter are also on the Titans’ radar for pre-draft visits.
These visits will provide the Titans with extended interactions beyond the brief introductions typically experienced at the combine. With Carter’s recent injury hindering his combine participation, the Titans are carefully weighing his health status before considering him as the No. 1 choice.
Evaluating Options
Discussions surrounding the Titans’ draft strategy have generated considerable buzz among NFL executives and scouts. Conversations reveal a few critical themes:
- Ward is identified as the leading quarterback prospect, though Sanders’ ability to process plays quickly makes him an intriguing fit for Tennessee’s offensive scheme.
- The consensus among scouts suggests the Titans’ three primary considerations will be Ward, Carter, or the option to trade down from the first position.
- A majority of team executives believe that the Titans might prefer to trade out of the No. 1 spot, although the demand for such moves could be tempered by this draft’s talent pool.
Currently, the Cleveland Browns and the New York Giants show interest in moving up, but the scarcity of elite quarterback prospects may hinder them from making bold trade moves.
Long-Term Planning
The Titans are faced with a comprehensive rebuilding phase, but strategically selecting a young quarterback could expedite their process. With approximately 22 picks projected over the next three years, the team’s management emphasizes a commitment to a long-term strategy of “draft, develop, and retain.” By trading back from their top pick, they would significantly increase their draft capital and gain more opportunities to select impactful players.
This year’s free agency could also influence their approach regarding the first pick, particularly with a few veteran quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Aaron Rodgers available. If the Titans secure a veteran quarterback, they may shift their focus away from drafting a quarterback early.
Implications of Free Agency
Recent assessments suggest that acquiring a high-profile quarterback could diminish the need for the Titans to draft a quarterback immediately. However, if they pursue an experienced player like Darnold, with a value potentially exceeding $30 million per year, this decision will subsequently affect their draft inclinations and roster maneuvers.
Nonetheless, even with uncertainties around last season’s starter, Will Levis—who faced challenges like 18 turnovers throughout the season—the Titans are poised to enter a competitive evaluation of their roster.
Spotlight on the Draft
As the Titans weigh their options, the growing acclaim surrounding Ward adds another layer to their decision-making process. His resilience and performance under pressure have left a notable impression on scouts and coaches alike, including Titans personnel who witnessed his growth during the combine.
Ultimately, the Titans are at a critical juncture. With top prospects like Carter, Hunter, Sanders, and Ward vying for consideration, their decision will hinge on whether they believe a quarterback is necessary for their immediate future or if they should address another roster need.
Borgonzi made it clear during the combine: “If we think a quarterback is the right decision at that time, we’re going to take it.” This philosophy underscores the Titans’ intent to build strategically, ensuring that their choices position the franchise for sustained success in the years ahead.
