Future Stars Linked to Tennessee Titans Interest

As the Tennessee Titans navigate their rebuild and aim to return to AFC South contention, the franchise has set its sights on identifying and acquiring future stars who can anchor the roster for years to come. From top college prospects in upcoming NFL drafts to young, ascending talents in the league and potential free-agent targets, the Titans’ front office—led by general manager Ran Carthon—is focused on players who fit both their tactical scheme and long-term salary-cap vision. These future stars aren’t just raw talents; they’re athletes with the work ethic, character, and on-field skills to complement the Titans’ existing core, including quarterback Will Levis and defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. Whether it’s a franchise left tackle to protect Levis or a ball-hawking cornerback to shore up the secondary, each prospect linked to the Titans addresses a critical need while adding upside. Future Stars Linked to Tennessee Titans Interest isn’t just about rumors—it’s about mapping the players who could define the Titans’ next era of success.

One of the most pressing needs for the Titans is upgrading their offensive line, and college football’s 2025 class features a standout left tackle prospect who has emerged as a top target: Ohio State’s Josh Fryar. The 6’6”, 315-pound Fryar has started 26 consecutive games for the Buckeyes, showcasing elite pass-blocking skills (allowing just 2 sacks in 2024) and the athleticism to handle speed rushers—attributes that align perfectly with the Titans’ need to protect Levis’ blind side. Scouts praise Fryar’s football IQ and ability to adjust to complex defensive schemes, traits that would let him contribute immediately as a rookie. Mock drafts project Fryar to be selected in the late first or early second round, a range that matches the Titans’ expected draft position in 2026. Beyond Fryar, the Titans have also shown interest in Alabama’s right guard Tyler Booker, a physical run-blocker who would strengthen the interior of the line and complement the Titans’ ground-and-pound offensive identity. Booker, a 6’5”, 320-pound junior, has helped Alabama rank in the top 10 nationally in rushing yards per game for two straight seasons, proving he can thrive in a run-heavy system. Future Stars Linked to Tennessee Titans Interest starts with these offensive line prospects, who are critical to stabilizing the team’s most vulnerable unit.

In the secondary, where the Titans have struggled with consistency in recent seasons, two young NFL talents have emerged as potential trade targets: Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II and Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon. Surtain, a 24-year-old Pro Bowler, has established himself as one of the league’s top shutdown cornerbacks, allowing a career completion rate of just 51% when targeted. While the Broncos have been reluctant to part with Surtain, reports suggest they could listen to offers if they enter a full rebuild in 2025—a scenario that would put the Titans in play, especially if they’re willing to part with a first-round draft pick and a young player. Blackmon, a 27-year-old safety with 11 interceptions over the past three seasons, would pair seamlessly with Titans safety Andre Cisco to form a dynamic backend duo. Blackmon’s ability to play both free and strong safety and his knack for creating turnovers (3 forced fumbles in 2024) make him a versatile fit for defensive coordinator Shane Bowen’s scheme. The Colts, who face salary-cap constraints, could be open to trading Blackmon for a mid-round draft pick, making him a cost-effective option for the Titans. Future Stars Linked to Tennessee Titans Interest includes these secondary talents, who would immediately elevate the team’s pass defense.

On the defensive line, the Tennessee Titans have their eye on a rising college prospect who could address their need for a long-term edge-rush partner for Harold Landry III (if he remains with the team): LSU’s Jaxon Howard. Howard, a 6’4”, 265-pound defensive end, has exploded onto the scene in 2024, recording 12 sacks and 18 tackles for loss—numbers that rank among the best in the SEC. Scouts highlight Howard’s combination of speed (4.68 40-yard dash) and power, which lets him beat offensive tackles both around the edge and with bull rushes. Howard’s style of play mirrors Landry’s, meaning he could step into a rotational role as a rookie and eventually take over as the starter if Landry departs. The Titans have also shown interest in Howard’s LSU teammate, defensive tackle Maason Smith, a 6’6”, 325-pound run-stopper who would complement Simmons in the interior. Smith, who missed most of 2023 with a knee injury, has bounced back in 2024, recording 5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss while anchoring LSU’s top-ranked run defense. The Tennessee Titans view Smith as a potential Day 2 draft pick who could contribute immediately in short-yardage situations and develop into a long-term starter. Future Stars Linked to Tennessee Titans Interest underscores the team’s focus on building a dominant defensive line that can pressure quarterbacks and stop the run.

At the skill positions, the Tennessee Titans are exploring options to complement their existing core, with a focus on adding a dynamic wide receiver and a backup running back who can eventually replace Derrick Henry. One college prospect generating buzz is Texas’ Xavier Worthy, a 5’11”, 175-pound wide receiver known for his speed (4.32 40-yard dash) and ability to stretch the field. Worthy, who recorded 1,100 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2024, would add a deep-threat element the Titans’ offense has lacked, opening up the field for tight ends and running backs in the short and intermediate passing game. Mock drafts project Worthy to be a second-round pick, a range where the Titans could target him if they don’t address wide receiver in free agency. On the ground, the Titans have shown interest in UCLA running back Carson Steele, a 6’1”, 225-pound bruiser who combines power and agility—traits that mirror Henry’s playing style. Steele, who rushed for 1,350 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024, would serve as an ideal backup to Henry while learning the offense and preparing to take over as the starter when Henry retires or departs. The Tennessee Titans also see Steele as a pass-catching threat out of the backfield (35 receptions in 2024), adding versatility to their offense. Future Stars Linked to Tennessee Titans Interest includes these skill-position prospects, who would add depth and playmaking ability to the team’s attack.

Looking ahead, the Tennessee Titans’ pursuit of future stars will be guided by their rebuild timeline and salary-cap flexibility. The team plans to use the 2026 NFL Draft as its primary tool for acquiring young talent, with a focus on drafting players who can contribute immediately while developing into long-term starters. Beyond the draft, the Titans will target low-risk, high-reward free agents—like a former first-round pick coming off an injury or a young player looking for a fresh start—to fill gaps without tying up long-term cap space. The Tennessee Titans front office has also emphasized the importance of character in their evaluations, prioritizing players who fit the team’s culture of hard work and accountability. As Carthon noted in a recent press conference, “We’re not just looking for talented players—we’re looking for players who want to be part of building something special in Tennessee.” Whether it’s a college prospect making the jump to the NFL or a young veteran seeking a bigger role, the future stars linked to the Titans all share one trait: they have the potential to help the team win both now and in the years to come. Future Stars Linked to Tennessee Titans Interest is ultimately about building a roster that can compete for championships—a goal that starts with identifying and acquiring the right talent today.