The Tennessee Titans are slated to have the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL draft after finishing with a dismal 3-14 record in 2024.
As the draft gets near, most analysts and insiders are in agreement that the Titans will likely keep the top pick and select Miami quarterback Cam Ward. Ward is widely considered the top passer in this class, and the Titans are one of the most quarterback-needy teams in the league.
However, the draft always throws us a few curveballs, and you never really know what a team will do until a name is called.
What if the Titans DON’T take Ward? There remains a possibility that the team could be interested in a different quarterback prospect or perhaps even a defender.
Today, let’s identify the three prospects who would be the best fits for the Titans with the top pick.
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Cam Ward, QB, Miami
Well, the first one is obvious. Ward has been the most commonly linked player to the Titans, and it’s for a reason.
Ward is the most polished passer in this class and has several traits that will intrigue the Titans. The passer has a strong arm, impressive athleticism, and the accuracy to make NFL throws.
In 2024, Ward threw for 4.313 yards with 39 touchdowns and seven interceptions. The quarterback led all FBS passers in touchdown passes and finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting.
Ward could be the franchise quarterback the Titans are craving. The Miami product would excite a fanbase that’s been through many bad times and give the team someone to build around.
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Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
What if the Titans take a quarterback but aren’t sold on Ward? Enter Shedeur Sanders.
Sanders is considered by most to be the second-best passer in this class. However, mock drafts have the passer going anywhere from the top pick to the bottom of the first round.
All it takes is one team to love him though, and it’s always possible the Titans could change their minds. Sanders is an extremely accurate and athletic passer, but he prefers to play like a pocket passer.
The former Colorado product threw for 4,134 yards with 37 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 2024. Sanders led all FBS passers with a 74.0% completion percentage. Sanders has a lower floor than Ward, but his ceiling could potentially be higher.
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Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
Now THIS would be a huge shock. What if the Titans avoid taking a quarterback altogether and instead choose arguably the best defender in the draft?
Abdul Carter is an elite pass-rushing prospect. The defender has 68 tackles, 24 for loss, and 12 sacks. Carter has the makings of a player who will have double-digit sacks every year.
The former Penn State product has a relentless motor and impressive strength and was quick enough to get behind the best collegiate blockers. The Titans’ pass rush is a huge need, but ultimately, quarterback is the most important position, and it’s unlikely the Titans are swayed, even by an elite talent like Carter.