Tennessee Titans Vow to Sign Alabama LB Deontae Lawson After He Declines 2025 NFL Draft
In a move that has sent waves through both the college football and NFL communities, the Tennessee Titans have publicly pledged to sign Deontae Lawson, the standout linebacker from Alabama, after the highly sought-after prospect decided to forgo entering the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision not only speaks volumes about Lawson’s potential but also highlights the Titans’ strategic vision for their future defensive core. The story behind Lawson’s decision, his skill set, and the implications for both his college career and the Titans’ long-term plans provide a compelling narrative about the intersection of talent, ambition, and team-building in professional football.
Deontae Lawson’s decision to decline entry into the 2025 NFL Draft came as a surprise to many. For several years, he had been regarded as one of the premier linebackers in college football, consistently earning praise for his athleticism, leadership, and football IQ. As a sophomore, he was considered a future first-round pick, with scouts from all 32 NFL teams keeping a close eye on his development. His decision to stay in college for another season, however, reflects a deeper sense of loyalty, purpose, and unfinished business.
Several factors likely played into Lawson’s choice. First, while his draft stock was undeniably high, he may have felt that another year at Alabama would allow him to further refine his skills and solidify his place among the elite linebackers in the nation. Lawson’s ability to read offenses, his speed, and his tackling ability were already polished, but refining his pass coverage skills and honing his leadership on the field would make him an even more complete prospect.
Second, Lawson’s decision could have been motivated by his desire to contribute to Alabama’s defense during a year in which the Crimson Tide was poised for a potential national championship run. Alabama has long been a powerhouse in college football, and Lawson’s leadership was seen as integral to their defensive unit. By staying, he was not only preserving his draft prospects but also embracing the opportunity to elevate his game in one of the most high-pressure environments in college sports.
Lastly, Lawson’s commitment to Alabama and his refusal to leave early may reflect his desire to make a lasting impact on the program. Alabama, under head coach Nick Saban, has produced numerous NFL stars, and Lawson’s decision to remain in school further entrenches him in the storied history of Alabama football. He would not only have an opportunity to play in some of the most prestigious games of college football but also to continue learning from Saban, one of the most revered coaches in the sport.
In the days following Lawson’s announcement that he would stay at Alabama for the 2025 season, the Tennessee Titans issued a statement vowing to sign him once he becomes eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft. This bold promise raised a few eyebrows but also signaled the Titans’ commitment to securing a key player who could play an integral role in their defensive future.
The Titans’ vow to sign Lawson is a strategic one. The linebacker position is one of the most important on the defensive side of the ball, and the Titans have been looking to strengthen their defensive unit for years. While the team has some solid players at linebacker, including veteran leadership, there has been a notable gap in terms of elite talent at the position. Lawson, with his skill set and potential, could be the player who elevates the defense to the next level.
The Titans’ defensive strategy under head coach Mike Vrabel has been one of physicality, discipline, and versatility. Lawson’s athleticism and ability to play in a variety of defensive schemes make him an ideal fit for Vrabel’s system. Whether as an inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense or as an edge rusher in a 4-3 alignment, Lawson’s versatility allows him to be used in multiple roles, making him an attractive option for the Titans’ defensive coordinator.
What stands out about the Titans’ vow is their willingness to wait. NFL teams typically focus on the current draft class, but the Titans’ long-term approach indicates their belief in Lawson’s potential. They are essentially putting all their eggs in one basket, placing a lot of trust in Lawson to develop further over the course of his final college season. The Titans are betting that Lawson’s decision to stay in school will not only give him more time to refine his game but also make him a more polished and well-rounded player when he enters the NFL.
To understand why the Titans have placed such a high value on Deontae Lawson, it is important to take a closer look at his skill set. Lawson is often described as one of the most complete linebackers in college football, and his potential to impact an NFL defense is immense.
One of Lawson’s most notable traits is his speed. At 6’2″ and 230 pounds, Lawson possesses a rare combination of size and agility. He is quick off the ball and has the burst to cover ground in coverage or pursue the ball carrier. His lateral quickness allows him to track plays from sideline to sideline, and his speed allows him to make plays in both run defense and pass coverage. In a league that is increasingly focused on speed and athleticism, Lawson’s physical tools make him an ideal linebacker prospect.
In addition to his speed, Lawson is an excellent tackler. He has a natural ability to shed blockers and engage with ball carriers, delivering powerful tackles in both open space and in tight quarters. His tackling technique is sound, and he is effective at wrapping up opponents to prevent yards after contact. This ability to stop plays in their tracks is a crucial skill for linebackers, and Lawson’s knack for finding the ball and finishing tackles makes him a standout in this area.
Beyond his physical skills, Lawson’s football IQ is exceptional. He has a keen understanding of offensive schemes and is capable of reading plays before they fully develop. His ability to diagnose run and pass plays, combined with his anticipation and reaction time, allows him to put himself in the right position at the right time. As a result, Lawson often finds himself making game-changing plays, whether it is a timely sack, an interception, or a crucial stop on third down.
