As the 2024 NFL season comes to a close, the Tennessee Titans find themselves with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a position that could drastically reshape the future of the franchise. The Titans’ focus has undoubtedly shifted to selecting their next franchise quarterback, and all signs point to Cam Ward, the dynamic signal-caller from the University of Miami, as the likely choice. With a pressing need at the quarterback position and an impressive draft class featuring both Ward and the highly touted Shedeur Sanders, the Titans have a critical decision ahead of them that could define their path for years to come.
The Titans’ Quarterback Conundrum
The Tennessee Titans have faced uncertainty at the quarterback position for several seasons. While Ryan Tannehill has served as the starting quarterback for much of the last decade, his play has regressed in recent years, and the Titans have not been able to find a long-term solution. Despite making the playoffs in the past, the Titans have struggled to reach the next level, largely due to inconsistency at the quarterback position. With Tannehill now nearing the end of his career, the Titans’ front office recognizes that the time to find their next franchise quarterback is now.
The Titans’ struggles in 2024 were indicative of their quarterback woes. Although they had solid play from running back Derrick Henry and a stout defense, their inability to sustain offensive drives and score consistently exposed the weakness at the most important position on the field. The Titans entered the 2025 NFL Draft with the No. 1 pick after a lackluster season, and they now have an opportunity to secure a quarterback who can lead them back to contention.
The question now becomes not whether the Titans will select a quarterback with the top pick, but rather which quarterback they will choose. Two of the most prominent names being discussed for the top pick are Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, both of whom have had outstanding college careers and have the potential to become stars at the next level.
Cam Ward: A Natural Fit for the Titans
Among the quarterbacks available in the 2025 NFL Draft, Cam Ward from the University of Miami has emerged as one of the top prospects. Ward is a prototypical modern quarterback with a combination of arm strength, mobility, and playmaking ability that scouts covet. After a standout career at Miami, he has cemented himself as a top candidate for the No. 1 overall pick.
Ward has been the leader of Miami’s offense for the past several seasons, guiding the Hurricanes to consistent success in one of college football’s toughest conferences. His ability to make all the throws, combined with his mobility to extend plays and create opportunities outside the pocket, makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams. He has consistently demonstrated poise in the pocket, with an ability to process defenses quickly and make decisive throws under pressure.
Ward’s best traits are his leadership and composure. He’s the type of quarterback who rises to the occasion in big moments, displaying the clutch ability that NFL teams crave in their franchise quarterbacks. Over the course of his college career, Ward has shown that he can thrive in high-pressure situations and lead his team to victory when the game is on the line.
For the Titans, Ward represents a perfect fit. The franchise is in need of a quarterback who can lead the team with both his arm and his legs, and Ward’s dual-threat capability is a major asset. With Derrick Henry in the backfield, the Titans’ offense has long relied on a strong running game to open up the passing attack. Ward’s ability to execute play-action and stretch the field with his arm and legs would be an ideal complement to Henry’s physicality. His addition would give the Titans an offensive weapon they’ve been lacking for years—a quarterback capable of making all the necessary plays to win in the modern NFL.
Shedeur Sanders: The Wild Card in the Mix
While Ward appears to be the front-runner for the Titans’ top pick, there’s another quarterback who has captivated the attention of scouts and NFL teams alike—Shedeur Sanders, the winner of the prestigious Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. Sanders, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation during his time at Jackson State University and, more recently, Colorado.
What makes Sanders such an intriguing prospect is his combination of athleticism, intelligence, and leadership. Sanders played under the bright lights of both Jackson State and Colorado, and he thrived in those environments, often rising to the occasion in big games. Sanders has shown that he has the skills to be a top-tier quarterback at the next level, with impressive accuracy, strong decision-making, and an ability to make throws to all areas of the field.
However, what sets Sanders apart from other quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class is his poise and ability to handle the pressure of being in the spotlight. The younger Sanders has lived up to his father’s legendary reputation and has quickly become one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in this year’s draft. His performance during the 2024 season solidified his place among the top quarterback prospects, and he could very well be the player the Titans choose to lead their franchise into the future.
Despite Sanders’ impressive resume, there are questions surrounding the level of competition he faced during his time at Jackson State, as well as the adjustment to Power Five football at Colorado. While he excelled in both programs, there is still uncertainty about how his game will translate to the NFL, especially against faster, stronger defenses. The Titans will have to weigh these factors carefully when deciding whether Sanders or Ward is the right choice.
The Titans’ Decision: Ward vs. Sanders
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, all signs point to the Titans selecting a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick. The team’s needs are clear, and both Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders represent viable options. Ward’s proven success at Miami and his physical tools make him a strong candidate, while Sanders’ leadership and ability to perform under pressure provide an intriguing alternative. Ultimately, the Titans must decide which player’s skill set fits best with their offensive philosophy and long-term goals.
The Tennessee Titans have a crucial decision ahead, one that will determine the trajectory of their franchise for years to come. Whether it’s Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback selected with the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft will have the opportunity to lead the Titans back to prominence. The future of the franchise rests on the shoulders of whichever gunslinger the team chooses, and the hopes of the entire fanbase will be pinned on this key decision.
