In an intriguing development leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans are positioning themselves for an up-close evaluation of one of the top quarterback prospects in the class. Payton McCollum, an offensive assistant coach for the Titans, has been selected to serve as a quarterbacks coach for the West team at the upcoming East-West Shrine Bowl – where none other than Shedeur Sanders will be showcasing his talents.
Sanders, the dynamic signal-caller out of Colorado, is widely regarded as a potential top-10 pick and is even in the conversation for the No. 1 overall selection – which the Titans currently hold. As the son of Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders, the younger Sanders brings an impressive pedigree and tantalizing skill set to the table.
A Chance for an Extended Evaluation
By coaching Sanders at the Shrine Bowl, McCollum and the Titans will have the valuable opportunity to work with the talented quarterback in a practice setting and see how he absorbs an NFL-level offensive scheme. It’s a unique chance to assess Sanders’ football IQ, work ethic, and ability to build chemistry with new teammates – all critical traits for a franchise quarterback.
While the Shrine Bowl is just a single data point in a lengthy predraft evaluation process, it carries added weight for the Titans this year given their strong interest in finding a long-term answer at the game’s most important position. Titans head coach Brian Callahan is also expected to be in attendance to get his own impression of the potential face of Tennessee’s offense for years to come.
Sanders’ Rising Draft Stock
After an electrifying collegiate career, Sanders has seen his draft stock soar in recent months. In his latest positional rankings, ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid slots Sanders as the No. 2 quarterback and No. 12 overall prospect in the 2025 class.
“Sanders has all the tools you look for in a modern NFL quarterback – arm strength, accuracy, mobility, and the ability to create off-script. He’s a dynamic playmaker with limitless potential.”
– Jordan Reid, ESPN Draft Analyst
While there will surely be competition for the top spot, including from fellow West team quarterbacks Max Brosmer and Brady Cook, Sanders has a prime opportunity to solidify his case as the crown jewel of the class with a strong showing at the Shrine Bowl.
Titans’ Future at Quarterback
For a Titans team in transition and seeking a new franchise cornerstone, landing the right quarterback in the 2025 draft is absolutely critical. With McCollum getting an extended look at Sanders and providing his insights to the Tennessee brass, the Shrine Bowl could go a long way in shaping the Titans’ draft strategy and determining whether Sanders is the guy to guide them into the future.
All eyes will be on Sanders and the Titans contingent in Las Vegas when Shrine Bowl practices kick off. Will this be the start of a beautiful partnership that alters the course of the franchise? Only time will tell, but the groundwork is being laid for what could be a momentous marriage between a team in search of a savior and a quarterback seeking to cement his status as the face of the 2025 draft.
