Schefter reveals the Titans' surprising alternative if their top running back target is gone, potentially targeting a dynamic linebacker.
The Tennessee Titans are ready for any scenario regarding the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
However, what if Jeremiyah Love goes at No. 3 to the Arizona Cardinals?
The Cardinals didn't have much of a running game last season. The team's leading rusher was Michael Carter, who had 333 rushing yards in 2025. He is now on the Titans.
Carter was followed by Emari Demarcado (312) and Zonovan Knight (269). If the Cardinals are truly sticking with Jacoby Brissett at quarterback, they'll need a running game to take the pressure off him.
The move would break the hearts of many Titans fans, especially after General Manager Mike Borgonzi hinted at taking Love with his "best player available" comments at the NFL Owners Meetings.
One would think that the Titans could be inclined to go with an edge rusher if Love gets taken at No. 3. Either Reuben Bain Jr., David Bailey or Arvell Reese could be available at No. 4.
ESPN's Adam Schefter believed the Titans may pass on an edge rusher and go with Sonny Styles if Love is off the board.
"There are draft surprises every year, with players going in spots no one forecasted," Schefter said. "Here's one that, depending on how the first few picks play out, has generated some speculation in a handful of front offices. If the Jets take Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2, which many believe will happen. If the Cardinals then take Love, which appears to be gaining some traction. And if the Titans then take Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, which is one of Tennessee's options."
At most of Robert Saleh's stops in the NFL, he's had a premier player at middle linebacker, like Fred Warner, Bobby Wagner or C.J. Mosley.
Styles would fit that role quite nicely with the Titans. He has all the athletic traits Saleh would want in an inside linebacker.
There would still be a good option available at edge rusher for the Titans if they went with Styles at No. 4. The edge rusher class has Bain, Bailey, Zion Young, Keldric Faulk, Arvell Reese and others entering the draft at the position.
Reese is a hybrid prospect because he played linebacker at Ohio State, but has a lot of potential as an edge rusher due to his size and speed. He ran a 4.46 40-yard dash while coming in at 6-foot-4, 243 pounds.
Reese wrapped up his final season at Ohio State with 69 total tackles, 10 TFLs and 6.5 sacks.
If what Schefter says is true, Styles could be the missing piece to Saleh's defense.