What happened
The Tennessee Titans chose Auburn edge rusher Kendrick Faulk with the 31st pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Faulk, a disruptive force for the Tigers, fell slightly due to depth at the position. This is Tennessee's first selection after trading back earlier.
Why it matters
Titans finished 2025 with just 29 sacks, dead last in the NFL, desperately needing edge help for playoff push. Faulk's athleticism projects as Day 1 starter, boosting futures odds from +2500 Super Bowl to +2000. Auburn edges like Carl Nassib have posted 40+ career sacks in pros.
The data edge
{"Titans_2025_defense": {"sacks": 29, "rank": 32}, "Faulk_2025_Auburn": {"sacks": 12.5, "TFL": 22, "pressures": 78}, "betting_movement": {"Titans_win_total": "7.5 to 8.5", "Faulk_o5.5_rookie_sacks": "-110"}}
What to watch
Titans pick next at No. 64 in Round 2; watch Faulk's pro day measurables and fit with Jeffery Simmons.