NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Tennessee Titans concluded their bleak 2024 season on Sunday with yet another loss, this time falling 23-14 to the Houston Texans. This defeat, combined with the New England Patriots' victory over the Buffalo Bills, secured the Titans the coveted No. 1 overall pick for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, marking one of the most disappointing seasons in franchise history.
The Titans ended their campaign with a 3-14 record, which ties their second-worst completion since the franchise relocated to Tennessee, only surpassing their abysmal 2-14 finish back in 2014. The dismal season capped the Titans’ longest streak of losses, finishing with six consecutive defeats and only one win over the final nine games.
First-year head coach Brian Callahan expressed discontent when reflecting on the season, stating, “It’s not a position I ever want to be in again.” It was the second time since the Titans’ tenure began, they finished last in the AFC South for two consecutive years, and the team's fan base had to watch their team play without realizing the promise this season had once held.
On this dreary Sunday, Nissan Stadium was filled with only half of its capacity, echoing the sentiments of disillusionment among Titans fans. The weather mirrored the team’s performance—rainy and cold. Despite the miserable conditions, it was evident the team still had significant questions to answer before the offseason unfolded.
Quarterback Will Levis started for the Titans but struggled, managing just one first down on his first three drives. Mason Rudolph took his place, bringing some brief offensive success, including two field goals. Levis returned for the latter part of the game but ended up fumbling, leading to the Texans' Derek Barnett returning the ball for a touchdown and sealing the defeat.
“I feel like I’m the quarterback for this team,” said Levis postgame, reflecting on his tumultuous year and the uncertainty surrounding his position. This statement hints at the broader speculation surrounding Levis’ future with the franchise, especially after posting more interceptions (12) than touchdowns (13) throughout the season.
For the Texans, head coach DeMeco Ryans was pleased with his team’s performance and momentum heading to the playoffs. C.J. Stroud delivered an impressive showing early on, completing all six passes of his first drive, leading to seven points. Pro Bowl running back Dameon Pierce also had his moment, rushing for 176 yards and making key contributions to Houston's winning effort.
Despite the positive ending for Houston, the focus quickly shifted to the Titans and the implications of their dismal season. Having clinched the No. 1 pick for the first time since their days as the Houston Oilers, speculation runs rampant over which direction the franchise will take during the draft. The Titans could capitalize on the opportunity to select quarterback Shedeur Sanders out of Colorado, who impressed by leading his team to its best season since 2016 with 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns.
Alternatively, the possibility looms of trading the pick for immediate improvements. The interest from other teams could provide the Titans with significant draft capital, especially if they decide to move on from Levis. On the other hand, if they choose not to pursue Sanders or another top quarterback, many analysts are pointing to Travis Hunter from Colorado as the likely candidate. Hunter is seen not only as the top non-quarterback prospect but also as someone who could seamlessly fit the Titans’ offensive scheme.
With the NFL Draft set for April 24-26, the Titans will have ample time to deliberate their options. Historically, it’s been almost 50 years since the franchise took the No. 1 pick, and back then, it turned out quite favorably when they drafted Hall of Fame running back Earl Campbell.
Ownership will inevitably influence the decisions made during this pivotal draft. With controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk at the helm, it’s uncertain whether she will retain Callahan and general manager Ran Carthon or look for significant change. Callahan’s record of 3-14 undoubtedly raises the stakes this offseason.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as Tennessee navigates their offseason. A quarterback search seems inevitable, and the Titans could pursue veteran options or welcome fresh talent as they look to turn their franchise around. The outcome of who they select or whether they trade the pick could define the team's success or struggles for years to come.
With the Titans now turning their attention toward the draft, one thing is clear: the organization faces numerous decisions bound to impact its future. Fans hope for change, and only time will tell how the Titans plan to reclaim their competitive edge.