Titans Hold No. 1 Pick in 2025 NFL Draft—But Who Will They Select?

For the second consecutive season, the Tennessee Titans finished at the bottom of the AFC South, but their 2024 campaign was even more painful than the last. With a 3-14 record, they took a significant step backward, winning three fewer games than the previous season.

However, there is a silver lining—their struggles have secured them the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, putting them in control of the draft’s direction.

Quarterback or Defense? Titans Face a Pivotal Decision

Tennessee has tried to find its franchise quarterback in recent drafts, selecting Malik Willis (2022) and Will Levis (2023). However, Willis has already been traded, and Levis has yet to live up to expectations. With a new leadership duo—head coach Brian Callahan and GM Mike Borgonzi—the Titans must decide whether to take another swing at a quarterback or address their glaring defensive weaknesses.

In recent weeks, mock drafts have linked Tennessee to several potential picks, including:

• Cam Ward (QB, Miami) – A dynamic dual-threat option
• Travis Hunter (CB/WR, Colorado) – A versatile two-way superstar
• Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State) – A dominant pass rusher

If Titans star DT Jeffery Simmons had his way, the pick would be clear.

Jeffery Simmons Endorses Abdul Carter as Top Pick

During a recent appearance on Deebo Samuel’s “Cleats and Convos” podcast, Simmons made his stance known.

“I think we need another edge guy. That guy from Penn State: Abdul Carter. He’s a dawg! He’s a dawg. So I for sure think we need an edge. I need an outside linebacker.”

Simmons, who was the Titans’ highest-graded defensive player (80.2, PFF) in 2024, has every reason to push for a game-changing pass rusher. Despite boasting the No. 1 total defense, Tennessee’s inability to generate pressure was a major flaw. They ranked:

• 30th in scoring defense (27.1 PPG allowed)
• 30th in sacks (32 total)
• 31st in pressure percentage (16.7%)

Is Carter the “Generational Talent” Tennessee Needs?

Carter, a 6-foot-3, 250-pound pass rusher, fits the mold of the “generational talent” that GM Mike Borgonzi mentioned in his introductory press conference. In 2024, Carter:

• Finished 7th in the nation in sacks (12)
• Ranked 3rd in pass rush grade (92.3, per PFF)

With Carter and Simmons together, the Titans could transform their pass rush overnight.

Could the Titans Trade the No. 1 Pick?

While selecting Carter could solidify their defensive front, the Titans also have the option to trade the No. 1 pick for additional assets. Quarterback-needy teams may be willing to make a blockbuster offer, giving Tennessee a chance to build depth across the roster.

With the draft fast approaching, all eyes are on Nashville. Will the Titans select a future franchise QB, a dominant pass rusher, or make a trade? Whatever decision they make will shape the team’s future for years to come.