As the dust continues to settle from the 2025 NFL Draft, new developments surrounding quarterback Shedeur Sanders have only reaffirmed that the Tennessee Titans made the right — and perhaps only — choice in selecting Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick.
When the pre-draft process began earlier this year, many draft analysts projected a close race between Ward and Sanders for the top spot. Both were highly-touted names, and debate raged across media outlets about who deserved the distinction of going first overall. But as draft weekend drew closer, that debate fizzled quickly — and decisively in Ward’s favor.
The turning point came during Ward’s pre-draft visit to Nashville in March, where he reportedly impressed Titans officials with his football IQ, leadership qualities, and magnetic personality. By the time the Titans were on the clock, Ward had become the clear favorite in their building, making the pick a no-brainer.
Meanwhile, Sanders endured one of the most unexpected slides of the entire draft. Projected by some to be a first-round talent, Sanders shockingly fell all the way to the fifth round, where the Cleveland Browns finally ended his draft nightmare by selecting him at No. 144 overall. The Browns had already taken another quarterback, Dillon Gabriel, before Sanders, adding further insult to injury.
Since arriving in Nashville, Cam Ward has looked every bit the franchise quarterback the Titans hoped for. His leadership was on full display at OTAs and minicamp, earning instant respect from veteran teammates, including team captain Jeffery Simmons. Ward has struck a balance between a relaxed demeanor off the field and fierce competitiveness on it, famously engaging in trash talk battles with Tennessee’s defense during practices—a clear sign of confidence and command.
In stark contrast, Sanders has walked into a crowded and complicated quarterback room in Cleveland. With Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and fellow rookie Gabriel ahead of him, Sanders faces an uphill battle just to earn meaningful practice reps, let alone playing time.
To make matters worse, Sanders has found himself in headlines for the wrong reasons. According to police records, he was recently cited for driving 101 mph, further fueling concerns about his focus and maturity as he begins his professional career.
With all this in mind, it’s become clear that the Titans’ choice of Cam Ward wasn’t just the right decision—it was the only decision. Early signs point to Ward being the leader and cornerstone Tennessee desperately needed to jumpstart a new era.
As the NFL season approaches, the Titans appear energized with a fresh face of the franchise. Meanwhile, Sanders’ NFL journey is already off to a rocky start.
Advantage: Tennessee.
