With the NFL season nearing its conclusion, the Tennessee Titans find themselves in a precarious position. Currently sitting at 3-13, the Titans are poised to secure the second overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. The team’s performance, especially at the quarterback position, has been underwhelming, prompting discussions about the necessity of securing a new signal-caller. This raises the crucial question: should the Titans focus on drafting a quarterback or consider other game-changing prospects?
Chris Johnson, the Titans’ former star running back, has voiced a bold opinion that could reshape the future of the franchise. According to Johnson, the Titans would be “absolute fools” to overlook Travis Hunter, the standout two-way player from Colorado who has garnered national attention and even a Heisman Trophy. Johnson’s perspective suggests that Hunter possesses the game-changing potential that the Titans need to revitalize their struggling offense and overall team dynamics.
A two-way player like Hunter can bring more versatility to the field, allowing for creative offensive schemes. His ability to perform both offensively and defensively could provide the Titans with a strategic advantage in games, especially as they rebuild their roster. Johnson believes that passing on Hunter in favor of one of the rookie quarterbacks could be a misstep that the franchise regrets for years to come.
In considering the quarterback prospects available, names like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward often surface. There’s a general consensus among analysts that the Titans have a pressing need for a new quarterback, given the lackluster performances from their current options. However, Johnson presents a counterargument. He expresses faith in Will Levis, the Titans’ second-round pick, suggesting that with patience and development, Levis may yet emerge as a competent leader on the field.
Levis’s record as a starter, marked by 20 touchdowns against 16 interceptions, indicates growing pains typical for many young quarterbacks. Johnson draws parallels to the development of players like Jordan Love, who had significant time to mature before stepping into the starting role. This acknowledgment of the time required for quarterback development highlights the importance of not rushing the decision, whether that means sticking with Levis or waiting for a more opportune moment to draft a quarterback.
The Titans’ fate in the upcoming draft could hinge significantly on their performance in the final games of the season. A win against the Houston Texans might complicate their draft positioning, possibly allowing other teams to secure the top picks while the Titans settle for an inferior option. Conversely, a loss could enhance their chances of claiming the coveted first overall pick, a scenario in which Johnson passionately advocates for selecting Travis Hunter over a quarterback prospect.
Ultimately, the Titans are at a crossroads where the decisions made in the upcoming draft could dictate the trajectory of the franchise for years to come. Balancing the immediate need for a quarterback versus the potential impact of a player like Hunter will be a critical and challenging decision for the team’s management.