The Tennessee Titans find themselves at a critical juncture in their franchise, currently showcasing a dismal record of 3-13. This underperformance has resulted in a high probability of securing a top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. While many analysts are adamant that the Titans’ primary focus should be on securing a new quarterback, as the team has struggled tremendously at that position this season, the conversation around the prospect of selecting Travis Hunter is garnering attention. Chris Johnson, a former star running back for the Titans, argues that overlooking Hunter for a quarterback could be an unwise decision.
Chris Johnson’s endorsement of Travis Hunter, the Heisman Trophy-winning two-way superstar from Colorado, suggests that Hunter possesses the potential to revolutionize the Titans’ roster. Johnson’s confidence stems from the belief that Hunter’s unique skill set could elevate not only the team’s offensive strategy but also their overall dynamic on both sides of the ball. The 20-year-old athlete is not just a quarterback prospect; he is capable of excelling in multiple roles, something that could invigorate a team desperately in need of versatility and talent.
While conventional wisdom might suggest focusing solely on a quarterback, Johnson’s insights encourage broader thinking about team composition. “We would be absolute fools if we passed up on Travis,” he states, highlighting the potential risk of narrowing their focus purely to the quarterback position. Such a strategy could miss out on a once-in-a-generation talent that Hunter represents.
Will Levis and the Time Factor in Development
Adding another layer to this debate is the performance and potential of Will Levis, the Titans’ current quarterback. Though Levis has had a rocky start to his career with a starting record of 5-15, including a concerning ratio of 20 touchdowns to 16 interceptions, Johnson remains optimistic about his development. He draws parallels with other quarterbacks who initially struggled but later found success after spending time to refine their skills. Players like Jordan Love serve as validation for this perspective.
Johnson argues, “Sometimes it takes time. Like years to sit down and learn.” This statement reflects a broader truth about the quarterback position; not every player is prepared to step in and perform at an elite level immediately. If the Titans can afford to provide Levis with additional time to grow while simultaneously acquiring a dual-threat player like Hunter, they could pave the path for sustained success.
The Titans also face uncertainty in their draft positioning. Achieving a win against the Houston Texans could drastically alter their chances of landing either Hunter or one of the favored quarterbacks. The stakes are high, and the Titans must weigh their options carefully. A loss could propel them to the coveted No. 1 pick, where selecting Hunter might be the most strategic move.
The Titans’ draft strategy should encapsulate both immediate needs and long-term potential. Chris Johnson advocates for a thoughtful approach that considers the broader impact of roster decisions. In an exploratory phase for the franchise, leveraging the unique abilities of Travis Hunter alongside developing a promising quarterback like Will Levis could set the foundation for a revitalized Titans team. Ultimately, the decisions made in the coming offseason could define the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.