The Tennessee Titans are currently evaluating the possibility of trading the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft. Chad Brinker, the president of football operations for the Titans, recently stated, 'We won't pass on a generational talent with the first pick in the NFL draft.' This assertion highlights the team's commitment to securing top-tier talent but also leaves room for maneuvering, especially considering some analysts suggest this draft class may not feature an undeniable generational talent.

As the Titans navigate their options, two quarterbacks—Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders—have emerged as the most coveted prospects at a critical position. While defenders like Penn State's Abdul Carter and Colorado's Travis Hunter are notable players, it is likely that any team seeking to move up for Tennessee's top selection would do so primarily to secure either Ward or Sanders. This scenario leads to a consideration of five franchises that could realistically look to trade up to ensure they capture their desired quarterback in a draft that might see limited signal-callers drafted in the first round.

One team that stands out as a potential trade partner is the Cleveland Browns. Given the ongoing issues surrounding quarterback Deshaun Watson, the Browns may feel compelled to explore this option. Currently positioned with the second overall pick, Cleveland is assured of selecting one of the top quarterbacks. However, a trade with the Titans would allow them to secure their preferred prospect and prevent other teams from trading up ahead of them. Although traditional draft pick value charts suggest the Browns would owe a second-round pick for this move, market dynamics could alter this value if it involves a franchise quarterback. A potential return in this scenario could include a 2025 second-round pick and both of Cleveland's third-round picks in 2025.

The New York Giants could also be a player in this trade landscape, especially if they conclude they need a quarterback immediately following the Daniel Jones era. If the Titans are more interested in defensive talents like Hunter or Carter, a move from the third pick to the first could become attractive for both teams. This option seems more logical than potential trades with other teams, as it would restrict damage to the Titans while addressing the urgent needs of the Giants. In this case, the Giants might part with their 2025 second-round pick and retain their third overall selection.

Another possibility is the Las Vegas Raiders, who might be desperate enough for a quarterback to leap five spots to the first overall pick. History shows this type of move has occurred before; however, it would carry significant repercussions for the Titans, as they could miss out on their top choice. A previous high-profile trade saw the New York Jets move from the top pick to the Rams in 1997 but that came with less compensation than today's market would dictate. Recent trades, like the Panthers' deal to select Bryce Young, indicate that the Titans would likely require substantial compensation including a future first-round pick, as well as a Day 2 selection. In this potential scenario, the Titans might receive the 2025 sixth pick, a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2025 third-round pick in exchange.

The New York Jets might also explore a forward leap into the top tier of the draft, especially if they are considering a replacement for Aaron Rodgers by the time draft day arrives. This move would encompass next year’s first-round pick alongside some Day 2 draft capital, likely exceeding the Raiders' offer due to the positioning at No. 7, which offers less value compared to the higher picks. Should the Jets feel the urgency to act, they could offer their 2025 second-round pick, especially with a stronger quarterback class anticipated next year that complicates the current decision-making process for teams in that middle range of the draft. A trade package from the Jets might include the 2025 seventh pick, a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2025 second-round pick.

Finally, the New Orleans Saints have entered discussions about making a similar jump as Carolina did two years ago, moving from No. 9 to No. 1. Despite currently having a quarterback in Derek Carr, it remains a slight possibility that the Saints could consider this transition without fully committing to a rebuild. Should this occur, they would likely need to relinquish an additional Day 2 pick along with their first-rounder in 2026, alongside this year's extra third-round pick. The predicted return for such a move could involve the 2025 ninth pick, a 2026 first-round pick, and more seasoned draft selections.