With the 2025 NFL draft approaching, Brian Callahan, the new head coach of the Tennessee Titans, reflects on his past experience as Cincinnati Bengals' offensive coordinator during the drafting of Joe Burrow. Callahan's insights into Burrow's development process provide a roadmap for the Titans, who are projected to select Miami quarterback Cam Ward with the first overall pick. Ward's workouts with the Titans indicate a strong likelihood of his selection, unless an enticing trade proposal emerges.

Callahan's retrospective on Burrow's progression highlights the developmental strategies that contributed to his success, which he aims to replicate with Ward. The Titans are in desperate need of a quarterback, and their decision-making during the draft could significantly impact their future.

As the NFL draft approaches, the Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly eyeing Grey Zabel, a versatile offensive lineman from North Dakota State, projected to be their first pick at No. 17 overall. The Bengals face a crucial need to bolster their offensive line to better protect quarterback Joe Burrow, who has faced heavy pressure throughout his career. Zabel's strong performance at the Senior Bowl has raised his profile significantly, showcasing not only his size and power but also his capability to play multiple positions along the offensive line.

While many analysts expect the Bengals to prioritize defense in the first round, the investment in an offensive lineman could pay dividends given the team's substantial financial commitments to Burrow and their star receivers, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. A refined offensive line may enhance their overall offensive efficiency, allowing them to compete more effectively in the increasingly competitive AFC North.

The Cincinnati Bengals are in talks for a potential primetime matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thanksgiving night, which could be a major highlight for the NFL in 2025. Bengals.com reporter Geoff Hobson discussed possibilities with NFL vice president Mike North, hinting that such a game is a viable option, especially as the team aims for a more prominent holiday presence during the Joe Burrow era.

With aspirations to also become a fixture for the new Black Friday games and an international appearance in Dublin or Madrid, the 2025 season might bring exciting opportunities for the Bengals. Expect them to feature in about five non-1 p.m. ET kickoffs, reflecting their growing significance in the NFL landscape.

Success in the NFL often hinges on effective drafting, particularly in the first round. The Cincinnati Bengals have demonstrated this principle well with Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase, both critical to their recent success. Conversely, the Tennessee Titans, burdened by poor draft choices, find themselves at the bottom of the league with the first overall pick.

Analyzing the past five drafts, teams like the Chargers and Dolphins have excelled, assembling rosters that led to playoff appearances, aided by skilled selections at quarterback and key positions. However, franchises such as the Raiders and Rams struggle to find impact players, highlighting the disparity in drafting effectiveness. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the importance of identifying future stars remains paramount for teams looking to shift from mediocrity to contention.