In a surprising twist of fate, the Tennessee Titans have secured the coveted number one overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL draft after enduring a turbulent 3-14 season. The once-dominant franchise now finds itself at a critical juncture, facing monumental decisions that could shape the organization’s trajectory for years to come.
A Season to Forget
The Titans’ 2024 campaign was marred by inconsistency, injuries, and a glaring lack of offensive firepower. Neither Will Levis nor Mason Rudolph managed to establish themselves as the long-term answer at quarterback, leaving the position shrouded in uncertainty heading into the offseason.
The team’s struggles extended far beyond the signal-caller position, with glaring deficiencies evident across both sides of the ball. As the losses mounted, it became increasingly clear that the Titans were in dire need of a comprehensive roster overhaul.
The Silver Lining
Despite the disappointment of the 2024 season, the Titans now find themselves in a unique position of power. Armed with the first overall pick, the franchise has the opportunity to select a potential franchise-altering talent or explore trade options to accumulate additional draft capital.
“Having top picks in other rounds gives you more chances to boost the roster,” notes Titans head coach Brian Callahan, drawing from his experience as the Bengals’ offensive coordinator during their 2020 rebuild.
The Quarterback Conundrum
With glaring needs across the roster, the Titans must carefully weigh their options at quarterback. While top prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward offer tantalizing potential, the team may opt to address other pressing needs and pursue a signal-caller later in the draft or via free agency.
The decision will likely hinge on the Titans’ confidence in their ability to develop a young quarterback and surround him with the necessary talent to succeed. With a roster in flux and a new coaching staff at the helm, the organization must tread carefully to avoid the pitfalls of reaching for a quarterback based solely on need.
Rebuilding the Foundation
Regardless of their approach at quarterback, the Titans must prioritize bolstering the trenches on both sides of the ball. The team’s struggles in pass protection and run defense were glaring throughout the 2024 season, underscoring the need for an infusion of young talent along the offensive and defensive lines.
- Offensive Line: The Titans must identify and develop a core group of linemen capable of protecting their quarterback and paving the way for a resurgent ground game.
- Defensive Front: Adding disruptive pass rushers and stout run defenders will be crucial to revitalizing a defense that often struggled to make game-changing plays.
The Road Ahead
As the Titans embark on a critical offseason, the organization must demonstrate a commitment to a comprehensive rebuild. This process will likely require difficult decisions, including parting ways with veteran players and embracing a youth movement across the roster.
The 2025 NFL draft will serve as a defining moment for the franchise, offering an opportunity to lay the foundation for a brighter future. By making shrewd selections and prioritizing the development of young talent, the Titans can begin the arduous process of reclaiming their status as a perennial contender in the AFC.
Only time will tell if the Titans can capitalize on the opportunity presented by the number one overall pick and navigate the treacherous waters of a comprehensive rebuild. As the football world eagerly awaits the franchise’s next moves, one thing remains certain: change is on the horizon in Tennessee.
