Titans' Shedeur Sanders Update Could Cause Major Shakeup in NFL Draft

Newsweek - Apr 5th, 2025
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The Tennessee Titans hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and were previously expected to select Cam Ward. However, after a standout Pro Day performance by Shedeur Sanders from the Colorado Buffaloes, the Titans have reconsidered their draft strategy. Following a meeting with Sanders' representatives, the Titans canceled their planned private workout with him, hinting at their possible intention to select Sanders as their franchise quarterback. This shift could significantly impact the top draft picks, with Ward potentially moving down to the Cleveland Browns at No. 2 or the New York Giants at No. 3.

The Titans' decision highlights Sanders' impressive skills, particularly his accuracy, having led the FBS with a 74% completion rate in 2024. Although he was not under pressure during the Pro Day, his performance has placed him as a top contender for the first overall pick. This development is likely to alter mock drafts and the plans of other NFL teams, potentially causing a ripple effect throughout the top ten picks. While some speculate this could be a strategic move by the Titans to mislead other teams, the cancellation of the private workout is a notable indication of their interest in Sanders.

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RATING

5.8
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and engaging look at the Tennessee Titans' potential draft strategies, focusing on Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward as top prospects. It presents a mix of verified facts and speculative analysis, with accurate reporting on the Titans' draft position and the cancellation of Sanders' private workout. However, the lack of diverse sources and transparency in some claims limits its overall reliability. The narrative is clear and accessible, though it could benefit from a more balanced exploration of perspectives and clearer distinctions between fact and speculation. The story is likely to engage NFL fans and spark discussions, but its impact is somewhat constrained by its speculative elements. Overall, it serves as an intriguing glimpse into the strategic considerations of NFL drafts, with room for greater depth and verification.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article accurately reports that the Tennessee Titans hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and that there has been speculation about them picking Cam Ward. It also correctly states that the Titans canceled a private workout with Shedeur Sanders, which is a significant development. However, the claim about Sanders' Pro Day performance being 'impressive' is subjective, although it aligns with reported assessments. The article mentions Sanders' completion percentage records, which are factual but should be verified for precision. The speculative nature of the Titans' draft strategy, described as a potential smokescreen, is a common tactic in the NFL but lacks direct confirmation. Overall, the story presents a mix of verified facts and speculative analysis.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the potential draft choices of the Tennessee Titans, particularly between Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward. While it provides insights into both players' prospects, the narrative leans towards Sanders due to the recent developments. This focus might overshadow Cam Ward's perspective and the broader implications for other teams. The article hints at the strategic maneuvers teams might employ, such as using information as a smokescreen, but does not delve deeply into the perspectives of other teams or analysts, which could provide a more balanced view.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its presentation of the main story about the Titans' draft considerations. It logically progresses from discussing the Titans' initial plans to the impact of Sanders' Pro Day performance. However, the narrative could be confusing due to the mix of factual reporting and speculative analysis. The language is straightforward, but the lack of clear distinctions between confirmed facts and speculation might affect comprehension for readers unfamiliar with NFL draft strategies.

5
Source quality

The article cites Jim Wyatt as a source for the Titans' decision to cancel Sanders' private workout, lending some credibility. However, it lacks a variety of sources or direct quotes from team officials or players. The reliance on speculative analysis without additional authoritative sources or confirmed statements from the Titans or Sanders' camp reduces the overall reliability. The story would benefit from more diverse and authoritative sources to strengthen its claims.

4
Transparency

The article does not provide much context about the sources of its information, particularly regarding the speculative elements of the Titans' draft strategy. It lacks transparency in explaining how the conclusions about Sanders' potential as a first pick were reached, beyond citing his Pro Day performance. The absence of clear attribution for some claims, like the Titans' intentions or the smokescreen theory, diminishes the transparency and leaves readers questioning the basis of these assertions.

Sources

  1. https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2025/story/_/id/41058646/shedeur-sanders-colorado-2025-nfl-draft-scouting-report-rankings-stats
  2. https://www.si.com/fannation/college/cfb-hq/news/shedeur-sanders-nfl-draft-slip-adam-schefter-comments
  3. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2025-nfl-draft-where-shedeur-sanders-will-be-drafted-aaron-rodgers-future-and-more-top-storylines-to-watch/
  4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yn2ddwe3Ngs
  5. https://www.tennesseetitans.com/news/titans-leave-colorado-s-pro-day-impressed-by-shedeur-sanders-and-travis-hunter