What happened: The proposed pick was for the 2027 draft. Green Bay and Denver were linked to Pollard before the deadline; he is in the final season of a three-year, $21.75 million deal.
Why it matters: Keeping Pollard gives Tennessee an established lead back as it develops quarterback Cam Ward. If Pollard leaves in free agency, a potential compensatory pick in 2028 would depend on Tennessee's 2027 free-agent activity.
By the numbers: Through eight games in 2026, Pollard has 595 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 133 carries, averaging 4.5 yards per carry.
What to watch: Contract talks will show whether Tennessee intends to keep Pollard beyond 2026.