Tennessee Titans makes shock NFL Draft 2025 No1 pick decision which would change Shedeur Sanders future…

In the fast-paced and often unpredictable world of the NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans have made a surprising and bold decision that could reshape not only their franchise but also have a significant impact on one of college football’s brightest stars: Shedeur Sanders. With the 2025 NFL Draft looming, the Titans have made the shock move of deciding to go in a completely unexpected direction with the No. 1 overall pick, one that could alter the trajectory of Sanders’ football future in ways no one saw coming.
Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes, has been one of the most intriguing and talked-about players in college football. As the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur has the pedigree, the skills, and the spotlight on him in a way few young quarterbacks can relate to. After an explosive season in which he helped lead Colorado to impressive wins, Sanders is primed for a top spot in the upcoming NFL Draft, expected to be a high pick, if not the No. 1 overall selection. However, with Tennessee’s decision to go in a different direction, things are about to get much more complicated for Sanders and his future.
The decision the Titans have made to select a player outside of Sanders at the top spot has rippled through the league. It’s a controversial choice that has surprised many fans, analysts, and insiders who had pegged Sanders as the top pick for months, if not years. In this article, we’ll break down the reasons behind the Titans’ shocking move, how it impacts Shedeur Sanders, and what this means for the NFL Draft as a whole.
The Titans’ Struggle at Quarterback: Why a Change Was Necessary
The Tennessee Titans have long been known for their strong defense and powerful run game, but their quarterback situation has been one of the more frustrating storylines in recent years. Ryan Tannehill, once the team’s reliable leader, has seen his play decline over the past few seasons. Injuries and inconsistent performances have left the Titans in need of a long-term solution at quarterback, and with the 2025 Draft looming, the question was raised: should the Titans go all in on a quarterback, particularly Shedeur Sanders?
For many, it seemed like a no-brainer. Shedeur had been on a meteoric rise since transferring to Colorado, leading the Buffaloes to an exciting and successful campaign under head coach Deion Sanders. His impressive performances in big games, his ability to read defenses, and his ability to stay calm in the pocket made him a prime candidate for the No. 1 overall pick. The Titans, desperate for a quarterback to build their future around, appeared to be the perfect fit for him.
However, the Titans have instead opted to go in a completely different direction, signaling their belief that the future of the team doesn’t hinge on adding another quarterback, no matter how talented Shedeur Sanders may be.
The Shocking Decision: What Changed the Titans’ Mind?
So why did the Tennessee Titans make this decision to pass on Shedeur Sanders? The team had every opportunity to draft him, yet they decided to go in a different direction. Several factors likely contributed to this decision, and understanding the rationale behind it sheds light on the team’s future trajectory.
The State of the Titans’ Roster
One of the key reasons the Titans passed on Shedeur Sanders is the state of their roster. While it’s no secret that the quarterback position is one of the most important positions in the NFL, the Titans may have recognized that their team needs more than just a new quarterback. Despite their strong defense and running game led by Derrick Henry, the team’s offensive line and receiving corps have been inconsistent. For a quarterback to truly thrive in the NFL, he needs weapons around him, and Tennessee’s roster doesn’t necessarily offer that.
The Titans’ offensive line has been in flux, and their wide receivers have struggled to create separation from defenders. For Shedeur Sanders, who excels when given time to read defenses and let his receivers make plays, these limitations might be a significant hurdle. The team’s decision to focus on addressing these areas first before selecting a new quarterback may have factored into their decision to pass on Sanders.
Shedeur Sanders’ Development and Fit with the Titans’ System
The Titans are known for their gritty, run-first style of football, with a heavy reliance on a powerful running game, particularly from Derrick Henry. While Shedeur Sanders is an exceptional quarterback, many believe his skills are best suited for a more dynamic, pass-heavy offense, one that can maximize his arm strength, mobility, and ability to lead an explosive offense. The Titans’ system, while effective in many ways, doesn’t align as well with Sanders’ strengths.
Sanders excels in a system that allows him to showcase his passing accuracy, quick decision-making, and ability to read defenses. While the Titans may see potential in his abilities, they likely feel that their offensive system would not fully capitalize on what Shedeur does best. Tennessee may be better suited for a more traditional, pocket-passing quarterback who can manage the game effectively but doesn’t necessarily need to have a wide-open offense.
The Desire for a Different Franchise Piece
The Titans’ decision to select a player other than Shedeur Sanders is also influenced by their desire to add a different type of franchise player. While Sanders is undeniably talented, the Titans may have opted for a player who could have a larger impact on the team’s overall structure. For example, they might have their eye on a defensive player who could help bolster their already strong defense, or perhaps an offensive tackle who could help protect future quarterbacks for years to come.
In this case, the Titans might believe that they can still find a quality quarterback later in the draft, while the No. 1 overall pick could be better utilized on a position that immediately upgrades their team’s overall talent. The team’s general manager and head coach may feel that adding a more complete roster around a potential future quarterback could ultimately lead to more sustained success than simply taking the best quarterback available.
How This Affects Shedeur Sanders’ Future
While the Titans’ decision to not select Shedeur Sanders may feel like a setback, it could actually open up new opportunities for the young quarterback. As teams around the league digest the Titans’ shocking choice, they will begin to re-assess their own draft strategies, especially for quarterbacks. Sanders remains one of the most talented quarterbacks in the draft class, and there are several teams that could be a better fit for his skill set.
The Teams That Could Now Target Sanders
With Sanders still on the board, it’s possible that other teams in need of a quarterback could jump on the opportunity to select him. A few teams that may be eyeing Sanders closely include:
- The Indianapolis Colts: With Anthony Richardson showing signs of promise but still needing time to develop, the Colts may see Sanders as an immediate solution at quarterback. Sanders’ ability to lead a team and thrive under pressure could be a perfect match for the Colts’ rebuilding efforts.
- The Las Vegas Raiders: After a tumultuous quarterback situation in recent years, the Raiders may see Sanders as the long-term solution to lead their offense into the future. His playmaking ability would fit well with the Raiders’ offensive philosophy, and he could help bring stability to the position.
- The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons, who have struggled to find consistency at the quarterback position, could be interested in a player like Sanders to energize their offense. Sanders’ ability to make accurate throws and read defenses would be an ideal addition to Atlanta’s roster.
- The Minnesota Vikings: While Kirk Cousins is still playing at a high level, the Vikings may begin thinking about the future. Sanders could be the perfect heir apparent, allowing them to gradually transition into a new era without disrupting their current success.
The Impact on Shedeur Sanders’ Legacy
Despite the shock and disappointment of being passed over as the No. 1 pick, Sanders’ legacy is far from diminished. He remains one of the most talented quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class, and while the Titans’ decision may change his immediate future, it could ultimately benefit him in the long run. The ability to go to a team that better suits his skills and allows him to maximize his potential could be the best thing for his career.
In many ways, Sanders could be blessed in disguise by this decision. While it would have been great to be drafted No. 1 overall, Sanders will have the opportunity to land with a team that fits his style and allows him to develop as a franchise quarterback. As we’ve seen throughout NFL history, being drafted by the wrong team at the wrong time can significantly hinder a quarterback’s career. By waiting for the right fit, Sanders could actually have a better chance at long-term success.