The Tennessee Titans hold the coveted second overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, a position often associated with selecting a franchise-altering quarterback. While many speculate about the Titans’ potential pursuit of a young signal-caller, former Titans star running back Chris Johnson advocates for a different approach. Johnson, a member of the exclusive 2,000-yard rushing club, believes the Titans already possess a potential franchise quarterback in Will Levis and should instead prioritize selecting the versatile two-way star, Travis Hunter, from Colorado.
Johnson’s rationale stems from his belief in Levis’s potential, despite the quarterback’s early career struggles. He draws parallels to other quarterbacks who benefited from time on the sidelines to develop, suggesting that Levis could similarly flourish with patience and proper guidance. Rather than investing another high draft pick on a quarterback, Johnson argues that the Titans should utilize their premium pick on Hunter, a generational talent capable of impacting the game on both offense and defense. He envisions Hunter primarily as a shutdown cornerback, with occasional deployments as a receiver in specific packages, capitalizing on his exceptional athleticism and ball skills. Johnson firmly believes that bypassing Hunter at the number two spot would be a grave mistake for the Titans, emphasizing the player’s unique and transformative potential.
Travis Hunter, a name already resonating throughout the football world, showcased his unparalleled versatility by winning both the top receiver and defensive player awards in the 2024 season. While Hunter has expressed his desire to contribute on both sides of the ball, many draft experts project him to excel primarily as a defensive back in the NFL. His exceptional athleticism, ball-hawking skills, and innate football instincts make him a highly coveted prospect.
Will Levis, the incumbent quarterback for the Titans, has endured a challenging start to his NFL career. In 20 games, he has completed 61.2% of his passes, throwing for 20 touchdowns while also accumulating 16 interceptions. These statistics haven’t yet inspired confidence in his ability to lead the franchise, leading to speculation that the Titans might consider drafting another quarterback. Potential alternatives at the number two spot include Hunter’s Colorado teammate, quarterback Shedeur Sanders, or another promising prospect like Cam Ward.
Hunter’s recent Heisman Trophy victory, the closest vote since 2009, further solidifies his status as a top prospect. His narrow triumph over Ashton Jeanty underscores the intense competition and high regard for his talents. Both Hunter and Sanders are expected to be early selections in the upcoming draft, with teams eager to secure their services.
Chris Johnson’s unwavering support for Travis Hunter highlights the player’s captivating potential. While acknowledging Levis’s presence on the roster, Johnson firmly believes that Hunter’s unique skillset and game-changing abilities make him the ideal choice for the Titans at the second overall pick. He envisions a scenario where Hunter anchors the defense as a lockdown cornerback, while also contributing offensively in specific situations, maximizing his impact on the game. Johnson’s perspective, rooted in his experience as a former Titans star, adds a compelling layer to the ongoing debate surrounding the team’s draft strategy. His endorsement of Hunter reflects the growing excitement surrounding the young player’s potential to revolutionize the game.
