As we inch closer to the 2023 NFL draft, where the Tennessee Titans could land their next franchise quarterback, teams around the NFL reportedly believe quarterback Ryan Tannehill is available via trade.
The news comes from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler (H/T Bleacher Report), who also notes teams believe the Titans could trade out of their No. 11 overall selection, whether that be with a move up or a move back.
“Teams I talk to do believe that Tannehill could be, or is, available via trade,” he said. “He’s got a $36 million cap hit. New GM Ran Carthon is resetting this roster in a big way, they’re making some moves. And so, right now they would need a replacement though, they would need somebody in place.
“So, do they draft one? I’ve talked to some teams who believe that the Titans are looking at moving up or even moving back from No. 11 because they have a lot of needs to fill,” Fowler added. “So, it’s not all about the quarterback position. So, at least Ryan Tannehill is comfort food, he is available, and they know what to expect.”
In the same report, Fowler states that “most people I’ve talked to around the league would be surprised” if 2022 third-round pick Malik Willis is named Tennessee’s starter in 2023.
Trading Tannehill is definitely a realistic scenario, but that will depend upon whether or not the Titans land a franchise signal-caller in the NFL draft who is ready to take over in Year 1.
I think Tennessee would move Tannehill if they were able to nab C.J. Stroud, but drafting a guy like Anthony Richardson, who may need a year to develop, could lead to the Titans hanging on to their veteran quarterback for one more year.
As far as Willis is concerned, there’s been no indication he’s in the team’s future plans at all, which makes him a candidate to be traded, also.
