Holding the first overall pick in the NFL Draft is both a blessing and a curse. It’s an opportunity to land a franchise-altering talent, but the pressure to get it right is enormous and can drastically change a team’s future.
The Tennessee Titans find themselves in that position heading into the 2025 NFL Draft after finishing the 2024 season with a record of 3-14. And while the front office will ultimately make the call, one of the team’s biggest stars isn’t shy about voicing his opinion.
Defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons, the heart and soul of Tennessee’s defense, made it clear where he thinks the Titans should go with their top selection. While quarterbacks and offensive playmakers typically dominate the conversation at No. 1, Simmons believes the team should invest in a defensive game-changer.
Jeffery Simmons Wants Tennessee Titans to Draft Penn State Star
In a recent interview with San Francisco 49ers WR Deebo Samuel, Simmons shared his thoughts on Tennessee’s draft plans and what they should focus on.
“I’m gonna start on the defensive side of the ball. We need another edge rusher. That guy from Penn State, Abdul Carter, he’s a dawg.”
Jeffery Simmons on the #Titans having the No.1 pick and what the team needs:
“I’m gonna start on the defensive side of the ball. We need another edge rusher. That guy from Penn State Abdul Carter, he’s a DAWG.”
👀 👀 👀#TitanUp (H/T @BleacherReport) pic.twitter.com/eR4Bjm7Bpn
— SharmSports (@SharmSports_NFL) February 14, 2025
The Titans’ defense has long been built around a dominant front, and adding a premier pass rusher would only strengthen that identity. Simmons knows firsthand how valuable an elite EDGE presence can be, and in Carter, he sees a player who can wreak havoc at the next level.
Abdul Carter’s Draft Stock Is Skyrocketing
Carter isn’t just another elite prospect — he’s one of the most disruptive defenders coming out of college this year. After transitioning from linebacker to EDGE, the Penn State star put together a dominant 2024 season, finishing with 12 sacks, 24 tackles for loss, and 68 total tackles.
His explosiveness, power, and instincts make him a nightmare for opposing offenses. He has been compared to Cowboys star Micah Parsons, another Penn State prodigy who made the linebacker-to-EDGE transition.
Most mock drafts have Carter coming off the board within the first five picks, making him a realistic option for the Titans if they take Simmons’ advice. However, Carter strongly desired to play for his hometown, Philadelphia Eagles. That scenario seems highly unlikely, as the Eagles will pick last after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 59.
While picking a quarterback or offensive weapon remains a strong possibility at No. 1, Carter’s rare blend of athleticism and production makes him an intriguing option for the Titans.