Unfortunately for Will Levis, his stay in the NFL draft green room is going to be a two-night adventure.
Almost universally believed to be a first-round pick, Levis wasn’t selected Thursday night in Kansas City despite making 38 appearances for Kentucky across four seasons. The Wildcats’ quarterback watched the draft begin with three signal-callers selected in the first four choices, and then none over the remaining 27 picks.
Now, with the second round beginning Friday at 7 p.m. ET, we take a look at three ideal fits for Levis on Day 2.
1. Tennessee Titans
The Titans could have selected Levis at No. 11, but instead opted for Northwestern offensive lineman Peter Skoronski. However, first-year general manager Ran Carthon still has a glaring long-term need at quarterback, with Ryan Tannehill signed for only one more year.
Picking at No. 41, Tennessee could either stand pat or move up a few spots to secure Levis. The Titans could then develop the rookie behind Tannehill, giving him time to learn the offense without the consequence of bad play. In the AFC South, a division led by third-year QB Trevor Lawrence and two rookies, Tennessee must find its solution at the position.
2. Detroit Lions
After a puzzling first round that saw the Lions eschew positional value for running back Jahmyr Gibbs (No. 12) and linebacker Jack Campbell (No. 18), Detroit will be on the clock with the No. 47 pick. And while quarterback Jared Goff was excellent last year, throwing for 4,438 yards and 29 touchdowns, he’s essentially on a team option for 2024 before being slated for free agency in ’25.
If Detroit general manager Brad Holmes isn’t sold on Goff’s future, Levis could be a developmental choice who gives the Lions a cheap answer at quarterback for years to come, providing Holmes with cap flexibility across the rest of his young roster.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
No team has a more pressing need under center than the Buccaneers. After thriving with Tom Brady for three seasons, Tampa Bay has turned to the duo of Baker Mayfield and Kyle Trask. Mayfield is signed for only one year, and Trask is yet to play a meaningful snap entering his second year.
Plucking Levis at No. 50 would give the Bucs an opportunity to double down on young talent, letting the Kentucky star and Trask battle to determine Tampa’s future. In a year when the Buccaneers are rebuilding, it would be a wise move by general manager Jason Licht.
