Todd McShay’s latest 2026 NFL Draft mock challenges the growing speculation that the Tennessee Titans will select running back Jeremiyah Love at number four. Instead, McShay projects the Titans to draft EDGE rusher Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami, while David Bailey from Texas Tech remains available, potentially falling to the New Orleans Saints at number eight. This projection is one of the first recent mocks that does not pair Tennessee with Love, reflecting McShay’s skepticism about the move.
McShay Predicts Titans Will Choose EDGE Rusher Bain Over Running Back LoveTitans Favor EDGE Rusher Bain Over Running Back Love for Scheme Fit
McShay argues that Titans defensive coordinator Mike Borgonzi, influenced by the Chiefs’ Best Player Available philosophy, prioritizes high-value positions like quarterback, edge, offensive tackle, and cornerback for top draft selections. Historically, top-tier running backs rarely translate into championship success with their drafting teams. McShay cites past first-round backs, including Saquon Barkley, Bijan Robinson, and Christian McCaffrey, who did not reach a Super Bowl with their original teams, reinforcing why Love might not be the ideal choice at four.
The decision to pick Bain instead of Bailey hinges on scheme fit. With Jermaine Johnson occupying the wide-9 pass-rusher role, Titans head coach Robert Saleh wants a disruptive, physical presence on the defensive line. Bain, though shorter-armed than some evaluators prefer, brings a tone-setting, aggressive edge rusher capable of impacting both the pass rush and run defense.
McShay’s mock underscores the importance of positional value and team fit in draft strategy, highlighting why Bain could be a smarter selection than a flashy running back, despite the hype surrounding Love.
