NFL insider explains the scenario where Hendon Hooker could land with the Titans
Tennessee Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker has been gaining momentum as a potential first-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft in recent days/weeks. Hooker, who is recovering from a torn ACL that he suffered last November, hasn't been able to show off his physical skills during the predraft process, but that hasn't stopped him from impressing […]
Tennessee Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker has been gaining momentum as a potential first-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft in recent days/weeks.
Hooker, who is recovering from a torn ACL that he suffered last November, hasn't been able to show off his physical skills during the predraft process, but that hasn't stopped him from impressing teams with his maturity and football knowledge.
ESPN NFL insider Todd McShay appeared on Barstool Sports' "Pardon My Take" podcast this week and he pointed out a specific scenario where Hooker could stay in the Volunteer State and land with the Tennessee Titans.
McShay suggested that the Titans are interested in moving up in the draft to select a quarterback (which lines up with reporting from Dianna Russini who reported on Wednesday that the Titans have called the Arizona Cardinals about moving up to the No. 3 overall selection).
If the Titans don't move up to select a quarterback, McShay said he's heard they could stay put at No. 11 and take Hooker.
"Tennessee picking at 11 has some interest in Hendon Hooker as well if they can't move up to go get their guy," said McShay.
The Titans are expected to roll with Ryan Tannehill as their starter in 2023, though recent reports have indicated the team is willing to trade him (Tannehill is in the last year of his contract).
However, if the Titans draft Hooker on Thursday night, I'd expect the team to keep Tannehill so Hooker won't be rushed into action in Nashville this fall.
The Titans could also trade back a few spots in the draft (one rumored scenario has the Pittsburgh Steelers trading up with the Titans to take Vols offensive lineman Darnell Wright at No. 11 and then Tennessee could select Hooker at No. 17).
It's setting up to be a wild draft and it's starting to feel likely that Hooker will be part of the action in the first round.
