The Tennessee Titans made a strong impression in the early rounds of the draft, selecting three players who have the potential to become long-term starters.
They kicked things off by taking Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick. Though he may not have been the consensus best player available, Ward was widely seen as the top quarterback prospect and fills a major need for a team that finished last in the NFL in PFF passing grade (57.0) in 2024.
“Ward led all FBS players with a 92.9 PFF grade last year at Miami and brings a dynamic, big-play approach—evident in his 6.3% big-time throw rate—that should revitalize Tennessee’s passing game,” wrote PFF analyst Mason Cameron.
With their quarterback in place, the Titans turned their attention to defense on Day 2, selecting UCLA’s Oluwafemi Oladejo at No. 52 overall. Originally an off-ball linebacker, Oladejo transitioned to the edge and caught attention during Senior Bowl practices thanks to his physical traits—athleticism, length, and explosiveness.
“He’s still developing as a pass rusher,” Cameron noted, “but his strong run defense, reflected in a 78.6 PFF grade, gives him a solid foundation.”
In the third round, Tennessee added perhaps their most intriguing pick: Penn State safety Kevin Winston Jr. Named by Cameron as the team’s rookie to watch, Winston stood out in 2023 with elite athleticism before an injury cut short his 2024 season.
“He was the only safety in the country to earn PFF grades above 85.0 in both run defense and coverage,” Cameron said. “Even with injury concerns, he was one of the top safeties still available when the Titans drafted him.”
The Titans are counting on this trio to make an impact, as the franchise looks to climb out of the NFL’s lower ranks.
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