2025 NFL Draft Preview: Titans' Top Pick, QB Debate, and Prospect Analysis

The 2025 NFL Draft Landscape

The 2025 NFL Draft, set to kick off on April 24 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, promises to be an intriguing event with the Tennessee Titans holding the coveted No. 1 pick. As teams prepare to strengthen their rosters, NFL executives, coaches, and scouts have been evaluating the top prospects, particularly focusing on the quarterback class and the Titans' potential moves.

Titans' Dilemma: Trade or Keep the No. 1 Pick?

Trade the pick: Five votes Keep the pick: Three votes

There’s a strong belief among league insiders that the Titans may trade the top pick. The consensus is that the team has multiple roster weaknesses, and none of the quarterbacks in this draft class are seen as game-changers who can elevate the current roster. Trading down to accumulate more draft capital could be a strategic move for Tennessee.

An AFC personnel executive emphasized, “The Titans’ roster has a lot of holes. They need more than just a quarterback. Who would Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward throw to if they take them? They need help!”

An NFC scout echoed this sentiment, noting the poor state of the offensive line, which could hinder the development of any rookie quarterback. The Titans finished last season with a 3-14 record, ranking near the bottom in key metrics like QBR, pass block win rate, and turnover margin.

Will the No. 1 Pick Be a Quarterback?

Yes: Three votes No: Four votes Undecided: Two votes

The debate over whether the top pick will be a quarterback or another position remains unresolved. While some believe a QB will be selected first, others argue that this year’s class lacks a standout signal-caller. An NFC South coach noted, “Shedeur’s not going No. 1,” highlighting concerns about the overall quality of the quarterback group.

An NFC South executive added, “Not a year you’d be pumped about having a top-five pick,” suggesting that the lack of elite talent at any position makes this draft class less exciting than previous years.

Top Quarterback Prospects: Cam Ward vs. Shedeur Sanders

Cam Ward, Miami: Four votes Shedeur Sanders, Colorado: Three votes

Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders have emerged as the top quarterbacks in this draft class. Ward’s arm talent and mobility give him the edge as a long-term prospect, while Sanders is seen as the safer pick due to his accuracy and refined pocket presence. However, scouts believe this year’s QB class pales in comparison to the 2024 group, which saw six quarterbacks taken in the first 12 picks.

An AFC area scout praised Ward, stating, “The experience, arm talent, decision-making... I think he has a nice package. Overall, I think he’s the top prospect and should be the first quarterback off the board.”

Meanwhile, an AFC coach who voted for Sanders noted, “He’s very accurate and has really good footwork,” but acknowledged Ward’s higher ceiling despite concerns about his risk-taking.

Top Prospects Regardless of Position

Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State: Seven votes Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado: Five votes

Abdul Carter, the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, is viewed as the top prospect due to his explosiveness and proven ability to dominate on the field. Travis Hunter, a versatile player who excelled both as a receiver and cornerback, is a close second. Scouts are divided on Hunter’s future position, with some seeing him as a standout cornerback and others envisioning him as a game-changing receiver.

An NFC general manager described Carter as “everything you want in a prospect,” while acknowledging Hunter’s unique talent. “He did things we haven’t seen in a long time and might not see again,” the GM said, emphasizing the challenge of determining Hunter’s ideal role in the NFL.

What’s Next?

As the draft approaches, the Titans’ decision on the No. 1 pick will set the tone for the rest of the first round. Whether they trade down or select a quarterback, their choice will have significant implications for the future of the franchise and the 2025 NFL Draft as a whole.