The Tennessee Titans are expected to be aggressive sellers at next week's NFL trade deadline (Nov. 4). General manager Mike Borgonzi and president Chad Brinker are attempting to rebuild the roster around franchise quarterback Cam Ward.
Additional draft capital could help accelerate the process. A number of Titans veterans on expiring contracts are expected to be available at the right price near the deadline. The lengthy list of potential departures could include cornerback Roger McCreary, tight end Chig Okonkwo, pass rushers Arden Key and Dre'Mont Jones, wide receiver Calvin Ridley, and running back Tony Pollard.
One name who obviously isn't available is Ward himself. The Titans' current regime drafted him at No. 1 overall approximately six months ago. Despite the straightforwardness of Ward's standing with the organization, ESPN's Adam Schefter thought it was worth reporting that the young quarterback won't be traded.
Duh.
Adam Schefter states the obvious, says Titans won't trade QB Cam Ward
Titans are open to dealing ahead of the NFL trade deadline, but they are unwilling to part with their most important players -- rookie quarterback Cam Ward and star defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons.https://t.co/i6xrbExoq6
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 26, 2025
Ward has struggled eight games into his career, amassing a record of 1-7. The Titans have done him no favors. An offensive line riddled with premium resources has underachieved. Ridley has come nowhere near meeting preseason expectations, forcing Ward to rely on young playmakers Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike. The offense is on its second head coach and play-caller of his rookie campaign.
Borgonzi and Brinker made the collaborative decision to draft Ward. Together, they possess a shared long-term vision for the future of the Nashville-based club. The focus of that plan is to rebuild around Ward. They're not about to abandon that mission roughly half a season into his rookie campaign.
The Titans require additional draft capital to try and speed up this painful rebuilding process. Trading veterans on expiring deals should be Borgonzi's strategy with the NFL trade deadline roughly one week away. The Titans could trade upwards of three players in exchange for draft-pick compensation. It goes without saying Ward isn't available.