2016 NFL Draft: Tennessee Titans Expected To Trade Back
By Erik Lambert
The Tennessee Titans could kick off the 2016 NFL draft with a bang, and it seems that is just what their intention is.
Fans are growing anxious in anticipation over what is to come for the 2016 draft, specifically regarding the top 5 picks. For the first time in years there is a real, genuine possibility that the #1 choice could be traded. Something that hasn’t happened since 2001 when the San Diego Chargers made a deal with Atlanta that resulted in Michael Vick going to the Falcons.
Now it seems the Tennessee Titans are not just surrounded by the usual trade rumors that come with that coveted spot. They remain steadfast in their willingness to move down and executives around the league are beginning to believe they will do just that. Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports had the report.
"As for that first-overall pick, league sources said the Titans have at least two offers on the table that they deem at least as worthy starting points toward an eventual deal, and their motivation to deal this pick cannot be overstated. Some execs who know Titans rookie general manager Jon Robinson well believe he ultimately will end up dealing that pick to accrue more assets, which are so desperately needed there, and they figure someone will be motivated enough to get a quarterback — whether it be the Rams or the 49ers or whomever.“I really do expect them to trade out of that pick,” said an executive from one team that has explored possible trade-up scenarios as well. “They’ll market it up to the draft to get the best ransom they can, but they’ll move it.”"
This shouldn’t be a huge surprise. Tennessee has a strong, young roster in place despite what their record last year might indicate. Most of their biggest needs can be met with quality talent even after they move down whether it be along the offensive line or in the secondary. It just becomes a matter of how far they’re willing to go.
Is it a short fall to #4 with a team like Dallas or might they chance dropping out of the top 5 altogether with San Francisco and Philadelphia each seeking quarterbacks. Given the fact they can’t really overcharge a team similar to what the Rams did in 2012, the lure to move up is stronger than it has been in years past.
If Tennessee goes through with it, the 2016 NFL draft could become an instant classic.