The Tennessee Titans find themselves at a crucial juncture, holding the second overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, a position often reserved for selecting a potential franchise quarterback. While many speculate about the Titans’ pursuit of a signal-caller, a prominent voice from the team’s past, legendary running back Chris Johnson, suggests a different course of action. Johnson, a member of the exclusive 2,000-yard rushing club, argues against drafting another quarterback, expressing confidence in incumbent Will Levis while advocating for the selection of Colorado’s two-way sensation, Travis Hunter.
Johnson’s belief in Levis stems from the understanding that quarterback development takes time. He draws parallels to players like Jordan Love, who have benefited from extended periods of learning and observation before assuming starting roles. Johnson believes Levis, with the proper nurturing and patience, can blossom into a legitimate NFL quarterback, negating the need for an immediate replacement. Instead, Johnson sees immense value in acquiring a unique talent like Hunter, a player capable of impacting the game on both sides of the ball. He envisions Hunter primarily as a cornerback, with occasional deployments at receiver, maximizing his exceptional athleticism and versatility.
This perspective challenges the prevailing draft narrative surrounding the Titans. While many experts and analysts focus on the team’s perceived quarterback need, Johnson highlights the potential of building around Levis and bolstering other areas of the roster. He contends that passing on a talent like Hunter, a player capable of transforming a defense, would be a grave misstep for the franchise. Johnson’s endorsement of Hunter reflects the growing appreciation for multi-positional players, athletes capable of contributing in diverse ways, adding a new dimension to team strategy and gameplay.
Travis Hunter, the subject of Johnson’s admiration, enters the draft with an unparalleled resume, having earned both top receiver and defensive player accolades in the recent season. His rare ability to excel on both sides of the ball has sparked intense debate about his optimal NFL role. While Hunter expresses a desire to continue his two-way contributions, many project him as a defensive back, where his coverage skills and ball-hawking instincts could be most effectively utilized. This projection aligns with Johnson’s vision for Hunter, prioritizing his defensive contributions while still leveraging his offensive potential in specific packages.
The discussion of potential draft targets for the Titans naturally includes Hunter’s quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, another highly touted prospect. Sanders’ presence in the draft further complicates the Titans’ decision-making process. Should they prioritize a quarterback, Sanders could be a viable option. Alternatively, they could address other needs, banking on Levis’ development while bolstering the defense with a player like Hunter. Cam Ward represents another quarterback possibility at the number two spot, adding another layer to the Titans’ dilemma. The upcoming draft presents a critical decision point for the franchise, with the potential to reshape their future.
The Titans’ quarterback situation remains a focal point of discussion. Will Levis, the current incumbent, has faced challenges in his early NFL career. His completion percentage hovers just above 60%, and his touchdown-to-interception ratio reflects inconsistencies in his performance. While these statistics paint a picture of a quarterback still finding his footing, they also provide context for Johnson’s argument. Levis, with more experience and a supportive environment, could still reach his full potential. The question for the Titans is whether to invest further in Levis’ development or seek a fresh start with a new quarterback prospect. This decision will likely define the franchise’s trajectory for the foreseeable future. The presence of Hunter and Sanders in the draft adds further intrigue to the Titans’ predicament, presenting enticing alternatives to the traditional quarterback route. The coming months promise to be filled with speculation and debate as the Titans weigh their options and chart their course for the draft.
