Shedeur Sanders, Cam Ward, and Abdul Carter will be hosted by the Titans, who own the first pick.

As the NFL offseason continues to heat up, all eyes are on the Tennessee Titans, who have a significant decision to make with the first overall pick in the upcoming draft. The Titans, who finished the 2024 season with a disappointing 6-11 record, are in a position to reshape their future. Given the growing list of potential top-tier prospects, Tennessee’s front office has been working diligently to evaluate talent that could give the team a boost in the near future.

In a surprising yet promising move, the Titans have announced that they will be hosting three of the most talked-about prospects in the upcoming draft: Shedeur Sanders, Cam Ward, and Abdul Carter. These three players are expected to make a major impact at the next level, and their visit to Nashville speaks volumes about the Titans’ strategy and how they plan to approach the draft.

With the team’s quarterback situation still unsettled and significant questions surrounding their offensive and defensive depth, the Titans’ first overall pick could be one of the most pivotal selections in franchise history. Whether Tennessee opts for a game-changing quarterback, a disruptive defensive force, or someone who can instantly improve the offense, their decision will shape the trajectory of the team for years to come.

Let’s break down each of the players visiting Nashville and how they could fit into the Titans’ plans, as well as what this means for their draft decisions.

Shedeur Sanders: The Dynamic Quarterback

Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, has been one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in college football over the past couple of years. After transferring to Colorado under his father’s leadership, Sanders quickly solidified his place as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. With a remarkable season in 2024, Shedeur has proven to be more than just the son of a Hall of Famer—he has showcased impressive poise, accuracy, and football IQ that has garnered attention from NFL scouts across the league.

Why the Titans Might Be Interested:

The Titans’ most pressing need is at the quarterback position. After years of reliance on Ryan Tannehill, whose best days may be behind him, the Titans need to make a long-term decision at quarterback to bring stability to the offense. With the first pick in the draft, Tennessee has the chance to pick the quarterback of their future. While Will Levis and Malik Willis remain in the fold, neither has shown enough to suggest that they will be the Titans’ quarterback of the future.

Shedeur Sanders represents the type of quarterback who could revolutionize the Titans’ offense. His ability to read defenses, his excellent decision-making, and his strong arm make him an intriguing choice for Tennessee. More importantly, Sanders has shown the ability to thrive under pressure. Having played in a high-stakes, high-profile situation with his father coaching him at Colorado, Sanders has been through the proverbial NFL gauntlet of media scrutiny and expectations. This mental toughness could help him make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Sanders also brings added mobility to the position, a skill that can be crucial in the modern NFL. While he may not be as electric as some dual-threat quarterbacks, his ability to move within the pocket and create plays with his legs could be invaluable for an offense that has struggled in recent years to keep up with the high-powered offenses of the AFC. His connection with new head coach Mike Vrabel, known for his tough, defensive-minded approach, could also help mold Sanders into a quarterback capable of leading Tennessee through a rebuilding phase.

Fit with the Titans’ Offense:

The Titans’ offense has struggled to find balance in recent years. With Derrick Henry continuing to age and a receiving corps that is often devoid of playmakers, the addition of a young quarterback like Sanders could invigorate the offense. Sanders would benefit from playing with Derrick Henry, as the presence of the NFL’s best running back would allow Sanders to utilize play-action to keep opposing defenses off balance.

Though the Titans’ offensive line is also in need of improvement, Sanders’ ability to extend plays with his legs would be a major asset, especially behind a line that could be in flux. If Tennessee decides to build around Sanders, they would need to prioritize adding weapons for him, but he has the potential to be the long-term leader the team has been searching for.

Cam Ward: The Underrated Quarterback

While Shedeur Sanders may be the most well-known name in the quarterback conversation, Cam Ward from Washington State is generating buzz as a potential sleeper pick in the draft. A dynamic signal-caller, Ward has displayed incredible arm strength, accuracy, and decision-making ability throughout his career. Though he might not have the same level of media attention as other top quarterbacks, Ward’s tape is filled with impressive moments of leadership and playmaking that cannot be ignored.

Why the Titans Might Be Interested:

Though Ward doesn’t have the same pedigree as Sanders, he is a natural fit for teams looking for a quarterback with a little more upside and potential for development. While many teams are eyeing Shedeur as the top option, the Titans may be enticed by Ward’s playmaking ability and what he could bring to a relatively young offense.

Ward’s decision-making, ability to read defenses, and fluid mechanics make him a worthy option. The Titans have struggled with consistency at the quarterback position, and Ward could offer them a versatile solution who can develop into the type of player who can lead a team for years to come. Tennessee may prefer to take a quarterback like Ward later in the first round or with their second-round pick, giving them the flexibility to address other needs with the first overall pick, such as bolstering their offensive or defensive lines.

Fit with the Titans’ Offense:

Ward’s mobility would make him a good fit for the Titans’ offense, especially as they look to modernize and adapt to the increasingly pass-heavy nature of the NFL. With Derrick Henry still in the fold, the Titans can establish a solid ground game that would allow Ward to use play-action to his advantage. Additionally, Ward’s ability to attack the field with both short and deep passes could help open up the Titans’ offensive playbook, something that hasn’t been seen in Nashville in recent seasons.

Abdul Carter: The Defensive Playmaker

The Tennessee Titans are not only in need of a quarterback but also in dire need of defensive upgrades. Abdul Carter, the linebacker from Penn State, is one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in the 2025 draft. Carter has been a key player for Penn State for the past few seasons, and his performance has been a major factor in the team’s success. Known for his athleticism, intelligence, and leadership on the field, Carter is a player who can make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Why the Titans Might Be Interested:

The Titans’ defense has consistently been one of the team’s stronger units, but they have missed a true playmaking linebacker who can take over a game. With linebacker being a critical need, Carter’s skill set might be the perfect solution for Tennessee. His combination of speed, strength, and versatility allows him to play both against the run and in pass coverage, making him an asset in a variety of situations.

While the Titans may have the option of selecting a quarterback first overall, they could also look to add a defensive superstar like Carter, who would immediately improve their front seven. His ability to create turnovers, cover tight ends, and get after the quarterback makes him a potential game-changer for the Titans’ defense.

Fit with the Titans’ Defense:

The Titans’ defense has the potential to be one of the league’s best with the right additions. Adding Carter would provide them with a linebacker who can not only cover the field sideline to sideline but also provide leadership and energy to an already talented defensive front. With players like Jeffery Simmons and Harold Landry already in place, Carter would complement their efforts and further solidify the Titans’ defensive identity.

What Does This All Mean for the Titans?

The Titans’ decision on who to select with the first overall pick in the draft is undoubtedly one of the most important decisions in franchise history. With Shedeur Sanders, Cam Ward, and Abdul Carter all potentially in the mix, the team must evaluate how they want to shape their future.

While quarterback remains the obvious focal point, Carter’s presence in the meeting shows that the Titans may be considering going the defensive route if they feel that an immediate impact player is needed on that side of the ball. A quarterback, especially someone like Sanders, would provide the team with a franchise leader for the next decade, but if Tennessee feels they can get value in a different round, a game-changing linebacker like Carter could transform their defense.

Ultimately, the decision will come down to what the Titans believe is most important for the future of their franchise: building a dynamic offense led by a potential superstar quarterback or strengthening their defense with one of the best linebacker prospects in years. Either way, the Titans’ first pick will have a lasting impact, and the team is setting itself up for what could be an exciting new chapter in Nashville.