2025 NFL Column: Who Should the Tennessee Titans Select with the No. 1 Pick?

The Titans are on the Clock

The 2025 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and the Titans hold the No. 1 overall pick. The question is straightforward: Do they draft a quarterback or trade down for a king’s ransom? Given their recent struggles and lack of offensive identity, this decision could define their future.

Betting Angle:

Current odds for the Titans’ No. 1 pick selection:

• Quarterback (-250) – The most likely outcome given their needs.

• Trade Down (+400) – If a team offers a massive package, Tennessee might consider moving back.

• Defensive Player (+600) – Long shot, but elite prospects Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter are in the mix.

The Case for Drafting a Quarterback

The Titans need a quarterback—badly. Their past investment in Will Levis hasn’t panned out. Now, they have a golden opportunity to draft a true franchise quarterback and reset their offense.

Key considerations:

• Lack of offensive weapons: Calvin Ridley is solid, but the rest of the roster lacks firepower.

• Offensive line issues: Tennessee’s O-line was ranked one of the worst in the NFL last season.

• Coaching transition: Brian Callahan is now in charge, but will he push for an immediate QB selection?

Betting Angle:

The Titans are -250 favorites to draft a quarterback. If they pass, the odds for a trade will likely spike closer to draft night.

What if They Trade Down?

If the Titans decide to trade the No. 1 pick, it could signal a full rebuild. Teams in dire need of a quarterback, such as the Las Vegas Raiders might be willing to offer multiple first-round picks.

Potential Trade Partners:

• Las Vegas Raiders (+500) – Searching for their next franchise QB.

• New York Giants (+750) – If they believe in one of the quarterbacks.

Betting Angle:

If the Titans trade back, look for Las Vegas (+500) or Washington (+600) as the most likely trade partners.

Could Tennessee Shock the NFL and Go Defense?

One of the boldest predictions is that the Titans ignore QB and draft a generational defensive talent. Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter are two of the best defensive prospects in years, and Tennessee’s defense could use an anchor.

Why this could happen:

• The Titans are in full rebuild mode. They might prefer to build the defense first and wait on a quarterback in 2026.

• Hunter and Carter are considered can’t-miss defensive prospects.

Betting Angle:

The odds of Tennessee drafting a non-quarterback are +600, making this a long shot, but worth watching if trade talks stall.

Final Verdict

• Most likely outcome: Tennessee selects a quarterback (-250).

• Best value bet: Titans trade down (+400) if an elite package is offered.

• Long shot: Titans draft defense and wait on a QB (+600).

The 2025 NFL Draft will define the Titans’ future. Whether they go quarterback, trade down, or make a bold defensive pick, their decision will have ripple effects across the league.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.