The Tennessee Titans are seeking to acquire the #3 pick in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft by trading with the Arizona Cardinals. This comes as the Titans are looking for a potential franchise quarterback like Anthony Richardson from the Florida Gators.
Four Elite QBs, Then a Dropoff
The Carolina Panthers recently traded with the Chicago Bears to move up to the first pick in the Draft, and they are likely to select Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud. Following that, the Houston Texans are expected to select either Alabama quarterback Bryce Young or Stroud, depending on the Panthers’ choice. The other two coveted prospects are Kentucky quarterback Will Levis and Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson, who saw his draft stock soar after a strong performance at the NFL Combine.
Titans Eyeing Richardson or Levis
The Titans had faith in Ryan Tannehill four seasons ago, when he led them to an appearance in the AFC Championship, but his subsequent 0-2 playoff record and injuries last season have led them to seek a replacement. Rookie Malik Willis, a third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, went 1-2 during his brief stint as starter. If the Titans are able to trade up to the #3 pick, they will likely target either Richardson or Levis.
Cardinals Trading Down in a Rebuild Year
The Cardinals have Kyler Murray at quarterback, so they are looking to trade down to acquire multiple future first-round picks. They recently fired head coach Kliff Kingsbury after a 4-13 season, and Murray is expected to miss the majority of the 2023 season due to a torn ACL. The Cardinals are a long shot to win the NFC West, while the Titans are the second favorite to win the AFC South.
Colts, Raiders, Falcons in Play for #3?
The Colts have the #4 pick and were outbid by the Panthers for the #1 pick from the Bears. They are reportedly considering a trade with the Ravens to acquire quarterback Lamar Jackson, but have yet to agree on a contract extension with him. The Raiders recently signed Jimmy Garoppolo and seem set at quarterback, though the unpredictable franchise could still take a risk and trade up from the #7 pick. The Falcons, with the #8 pick, are also mentioned in potential trade rumors with the Cardinals, though head coach Arthur Smith has expressed confidence in second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder.
