The Titans are now authorized to discuss potential trades with the star quarterback.

In what could be one of the most dramatic and transformative moments in recent NFL history, the Tennessee Titans have now been authorized to discuss potential trades involving a star quarterback. This unprecedented move has sent shockwaves throughout the NFL, with analysts, insiders, and fans alike speculating about the future of the Titans and the potential shake-up at the quarterback position.

This article will delve into what this development means for the Titans, why it might be happening now, the potential trade scenarios that could unfold, and how this move could shape the team’s future moving forward. We’ll also explore the possible quarterbacks involved, what this could mean for the Titans’ current roster, and what the team’s approach should be in the coming weeks leading up to the NFL Draft.

The Titans’ Current Quarterback Situation

As of now, the Tennessee Titans are led by veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill. Tannehill, who has been with the Titans since 2019, has been a stabilizing force at quarterback and has helped the team to multiple playoff appearances. However, despite his leadership and experience, Tannehill has faced increasing scrutiny in recent seasons, especially with regard to his ability to carry the team during high-pressure moments.

At 36 years old, Tannehill’s future with the Titans has been a subject of growing uncertainty. While he is still a capable starting quarterback, his age, injury history, and declining performance in recent years have raised questions about how much longer he can be the team’s cornerstone at the position. The Titans have already begun to position themselves for the future, with the understanding that a younger, more dynamic quarterback may be necessary to elevate the team back to championship contention.

The quarterback position is, without a doubt, the biggest question mark surrounding the Titans as they move forward. While Tannehill has had a solid tenure with the team, it’s clear that the Titans will need to look ahead to the future—especially in a division where rising teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts are building competitive rosters.

This brings us to the pivotal question: why are the Titans now authorized to discuss potential trades involving their star quarterback?

Why Now? The Timing of the Decision

The timing of this decision is crucial. The Titans’ front office, led by general manager Ran Carthon and head coach Mike Vrabel, has likely been contemplating this move for some time. The NFL offseason provides teams with a unique opportunity to reevaluate their rosters, assess player performance, and make key decisions that will impact the long-term future of the team. With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, the Titans are facing a critical juncture in their rebuild, and trading away Tannehill could be the first step toward securing a new quarterback of the future.

Several factors may have influenced the decision to authorize trade talks now:

1. Age and Declining Performance: As mentioned earlier, Tannehill’s age and his occasional struggles with inconsistency and injury have made it clear that the Titans need to start planning for life after him. While Tannehill is still capable of providing solid play for another season or two, the Titans may have determined that it’s time to explore trade opportunities and bring in a younger, potentially more dynamic quarterback who can lead the team for the next decade.
2. Quarterback Talent in the 2025 Draft: One of the driving forces behind this decision is likely the deep talent pool at quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. With prospects like Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and others expected to go early in the draft, the Titans could be looking to trade up or position themselves to secure a top-tier quarterback who can develop into a franchise leader. The Titans may feel that now is the best time to trade Tannehill while he still holds significant value on the market and maximize their draft capital in the process.
3. Market Dynamics and Potential Trade Partners: The NFL trade market is always fluid, with teams looking for quarterbacks who can elevate their rosters. With Tannehill’s proven track record and relatively low salary cap hit compared to some other veteran quarterbacks, he could be an attractive option for teams in need of an experienced starter. This creates an opportunity for the Titans to capitalize on the quarterback market and potentially acquire additional draft picks or valuable assets.
4. Building Around Derrick Henry: While the Titans’ offense has revolved around star running back Derrick Henry, the team must adapt and evolve to remain competitive in the modern NFL. A mobile, dynamic quarterback could complement Henry’s style of play and open up new possibilities for the offense. Tannehill’s skill set is not ideally suited to the new wave of NFL quarterbacks, which may have prompted the Titans to make this move.

Potential Trade Scenarios Involving Ryan Tannehill

Now that the Titans have been authorized to discuss trades, the next step is identifying the potential trade partners and what the Titans could gain in return for Tannehill. Several teams around the NFL are in need of a quarterback, and Tannehill could be an appealing option for a franchise looking for a stable veteran presence to guide their team.

Here are a few potential trade scenarios to consider:

1. Trade with the New York Jets

The New York Jets are one of the most obvious teams that could be in the market for a veteran quarterback. With their own quarterback situation in flux, the Jets could be looking to add a proven player like Tannehill to stabilize their offense and complement their strong defense. If the Jets decide not to go all-in on a rookie quarterback, Tannehill could be an ideal stopgap solution, providing a steady hand at the position while they continue to build around their young talent.

In return, the Titans could look to acquire the Jets’ first-round pick or additional draft picks to help them rebuild. The Jets have been actively involved in trade discussions for quarterbacks in the past, so they may be willing to part with some of their draft capital to land a veteran like Tannehill.

2. Trade with the Indianapolis Colts

Another team that could be interested in Tannehill is the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts are coming off a tumultuous season with inconsistent play at quarterback, and while they may consider drafting a quarterback with their top pick, Tannehill could be an attractive option as a bridge quarterback. With a solid offensive line and a strong running game led by Jonathan Taylor, the Colts could be one quarterback away from contending in the AFC South.

For the Titans, a trade with the Colts could involve securing high-value draft picks or younger players who could help accelerate their rebuilding process. Since the Colts have a relatively stable roster outside of quarterback, they could be willing to trade for Tannehill to immediately improve their chances in the competitive AFC South.

3. Trade with the Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons are another potential suitor for Tannehill. After a roller-coaster season at quarterback, the Falcons may be looking to add a veteran presence under center. While Desmond Ridder is still in the mix as a potential long-term option, Tannehill could provide the Falcons with a steadying influence as they look to develop their offense.

For the Titans, trading with the Falcons could result in a mid-round draft pick or possibly a player who could immediately contribute to their defensive line or secondary. The Falcons have shown interest in acquiring veteran talent in recent years, and Tannehill’s experience could be a valuable asset for their offense.

4. Trade with the Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders are also in the market for a quarterback after struggling with inconsistency at the position. With a talented roster on both sides of the ball, the Commanders could look to add a veteran quarterback like Tannehill to give them a stable presence under center as they continue to contend in the NFC East.

In return, the Titans could target Washington’s mid-round picks and possibly a player to bolster their defense or offensive line. The Commanders are looking to make a push for the playoffs, and Tannehill could help them become more competitive in a wide-open NFC.

What the Titans Could Gain from Trading Tannehill

Trading Ryan Tannehill could provide the Titans with several valuable assets, including:

1. Draft Capital: The Titans could acquire additional draft picks, particularly in the early rounds, to help accelerate their rebuild. Whether they use these picks to select a quarterback of the future, bolster the offensive line, or add talent to the defense, additional draft capital could go a long way in improving the overall roster.
2. Cap Space: Trading Tannehill would free up cap space, which the Titans could use to sign key free agents or make other moves to improve the team’s depth. The team could focus on building around a younger quarterback and adding pieces in other areas.
3. Flexibility: Trading Tannehill gives the Titans more flexibility in their approach to the draft and free agency. With more picks and cap space, they can be more aggressive in acquiring talent or moving up in the draft to select the right players for their future.