The Tennessee Titans used the second pick in the 2015 NFL Draft to select their future franchise quarterback in Marcus Mariota, and after finishing this season tied for the worst record in the league at 3-13, they will have the first pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. The Titans and Browns finished at the bottom of the NFL this season, but due to a lower strength of schedule, Tennessee claims the top pick.
The Titans' preference with the top pick is to trade down within the top 10 and target one of the top tier defensive backs in either Florida State's Jalen Ramsey or Florida Gators cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III, according to Charlie Campbell of Walter Football. The Titans will reportedly target Ole Miss offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil with the first pick if a trade can not be made.
Tunsil is considered the top offensive lineman in the 2016 draft class by most draft analysts and could become a cornerstone left tackle in Tennessee. The Titans already have a talented left tackle in Taylor Lewan, but they could establish a top-tier offensive line with Lewan and Tunsil serving as bookends on Tennessee's offensive line.
It will be interesting to see how far the Titans are willing to trade down, as newly appointed general manger Jon Robinson knows how important this selection is. Ramsey is expected to be the first defensive back taken off the board and has high value, as he is seen as both a safety and a corner. Ramsey has received some strong praises from draft analysts and has even drawn comparisons to Kansas City Chiefs strong safety Eric Berry.
While Ramsey will likely be selected off the board first, Hargreaves won't fall too far behind and is expected to be taken in the first 10 picks. The Gators cornerback can press and play off in coverage, and he can make an immediate impact for any defense.
The Titans haven't made the playoffs since 2008 and know this draft pick will have a huge impact on their future. It will be interesting to follow the Titans leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft, as multiple teams could be interested in trading up for the top pick. Tennessee has used two first round picks on offense in the past two drafts, and if they don't receive an appealing enough offer to trade down, expect Tunsil to be the first player selected in the draft.
