The Tennessee Titans, sitting at 1-4, face mounting pressure as they prepare for their Week 7 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Given the team’s disappointing start, trade speculation has begun to swirl around several key players. If the Titans lose and fall to 1-5, it wouldn’t be shocking to see the team consider offloading some of their top talent to rebuild for the future.
One player that has emerged as a potential trade target is star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. There has been buzz around a possible blockbuster deal, and Mike Payton from AtoZ Sports has proposed an intriguing trade scenario. According to his suggestion, the Titans could trade Simmons, along with linebacker Harold Landry, to the Detroit Lions.
Payton’s proposed trade would send Simmons and Landry to Detroit in exchange for a package that includes quarterback Hendon Hooker, cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2026 fourth-round pick. Let’s examine this potential deal from both perspectives.
For the Titans, this trade would bring several long-term assets. One of the key pieces is Hendon Hooker, a talented young quarterback who had an impressive college career with the Tennessee Volunteers. Hooker could provide competition to Will Levis and add depth to a position where the Titans need stability. There are some around the league who believe that Hooker could develop into a starting-caliber quarterback in the NFL, giving Tennessee a potential option at the most important position.
In addition to Hooker, the Titans would also receive Ennis Rakestraw, a young cornerback who was drafted in the second round by the Lions. Though he hasn’t seen much playing time this season, Rakestraw could add youth and depth to Tennessee’s secondary. His development could be key as the Titans look to rebuild their defense with fresh talent.
The Titans would also gain valuable draft capital in the form of a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick. These picks provide flexibility, either to use in future drafts to bolster the roster or as trade assets for future moves. In any case, adding picks would help Tennessee plan for the long term as they navigate a difficult season.
For the Lions, acquiring Jeffery Simmons would be a huge boost to their defensive front. Simmons is an elite pass rusher from the defensive tackle position, although his production has dipped this season with just 15 tackles and one sack. Still, Simmons’ talent is undeniable, and he could help fill the void left by Aidan Hutchinson’s injury. Simmons’ presence would elevate the Lions’ pass rush and improve their defense overall.
Additionally, Harold Landry would give Detroit another strong pass-rushing option on the edge. Landry has already recorded four sacks this season and has been a key piece for the Titans’ defense. His ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks would complement Detroit’s defensive scheme and further strengthen their defense.
While this trade scenario offers potential benefits for both sides, it remains speculative at this point. As of now, there has been no official word that the Titans and Lions are in serious trade discussions. However, with the NFL trade deadline approaching, it will be interesting to see if Tennessee decides to move key players like Simmons to set up for the future.
The Titans, looking to retool and plan for next season, could make significant moves if they continue to struggle, and trading Simmons could be the first major step in that process.
