According to Tennessee Titans HC Brian Callahan, the Titans will be looking to add a running back at some point in the 2025 NFL Draft.
That’s right, a running back. All of the talk has been about edge rushers, quarterbacks, wide receivers, and offensive tackles for good reason. That remains the priority for the Titans this offseason, but I was surprised to learn that Tennessee’s front office feels the need to make an addition in the backfield.
Brian Callahan was forthcoming with that information in his side media session at the NFL Combine.
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Tony Pollard exceeded all expectations in 2024 and ran for 1,079 yards. He was a shining light for an offense that had few bright spots. Tyjae Spears, on the other hand, had a rough go during his sophomore NFL season.
After advertising the backfield as an “equal opportunity” for both backs, injuries sidelined Spears and forced Tennessee to feed Pollard as the primary guy. Pollard never really gave those touches back.
Spears finished the season with just 312 rushing yards on 3.7 yards per carry. For comparison, Pollard ran the ball 260 times to Spears' 84.
While the Titans claim to still like the Pollard/Spears combination in the backfield, they are seeking a back to compliment the running styles they already have on the roster.
The 2025 draft class is considered to be a really strong one at the running back position. There’s a lot of depth there.
I'd have to assume the complimentary running style Callahan mentioned is a power back, perhaps with a goal line specialty. Tennessee could find one in the late rounds of the draft. That’s absolutely on the table for them…But what would it mean for Spears?
If the Titans are looking to add a running back that will get carries and be "something different," I’d assume it’s only cutting into Spears’ workload more and giving him an even smaller role.
