NFL analyst: 'Tennessee Titans could be the surprise team of the league'
NFL analyst: 'Tennessee Titans could be the surprise team of the league'
With the Tennessee Titans heading into the final days of organized team activities (OTAs) and their mandatory minicamp on the horizon, the team is doing everything it can to be ready for the 2025 season.
There is no doubt that the Titans are a different team than the one that went 3-14 in 2024 after making massive changes to multiple positional groups during the offseason. The new-look roster appears deeper in talent and has added needed competition and depth at key positions.
While they are poised to make a jump in 2025 and reverse their fortunes, many national media outlets have already written them off, giving them zero chance at success. This could be a short-sighted approach with the Titans boasting a better roster in 2025 and playing in potentially the worst division in the NFL.
The NFL is somewhat predictable and fans see certain things happen almost every year. So, it's not uncommon for a last-place team to turn it around and win their division the following season. In 19 of the past 22 seasons, a franchise has done just that: gone from worst to first.
Even in 2024 when it technically did not happen, the Washington Commanders went from last place in their division to the playoffs, finishing behind the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC East.
What about 2025? Carmen Vitali of Fox Sports broke down every division and came up with which last-place team has the best chance to win their division, and the Titans are in a good spot.
2. Tennessee Titans (AFC South)
The AFC South looks completely up for grabs, and with the addition of Cam Ward at quarterback, the Titans could be the surprise team of the league. They've collected quite the starting five in front of the No. 1 overall pick and added four receivers, including underrated veteran Tyler Lockett. Tennessee's defense also looked like it was ascending last season. I'm not saying it's definitely going to happen, but if we see a major shakeup in any division, it's likely going to be the AFC South.
Vitali hit all of the points that could potentially make the Titans go. With an improved offensive line, a new quarterback, and some added veteran leadership, they can make some noise in 2025.
The Titans played in a lot of close games last season and could not pull it out in the end. Once you couple those factors in with their weak division and one of the easier schedules, Tennessee has the makings of an under-the-radar surprise team this season.
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