The Tennessee Titans shocked draft analysts when they picked Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate with the fourth-overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. Something that was quite ironic, because many of these same analysts were critical of the front office ahead of the draft for not building around quarterback Cam Ward.
Although the pick came as a surprise, everything about Tate has been as advertised after the selection, and as Turron Davenport of ESPN points out, he has been impressive during offseason team activities.
No. 4. Tennessee TitansCarnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Tate impressed from the start with his swift route running and consistent catching ability. He was a standout, especially in OTAs — where he reached the end zone three times in practices open to the media. “He’s polished,” cornerback Alontae Taylor said of Tate. “For a rookie to come in, doing some of the things that he’s doing is really, really exciting. Come Sundays, he’s going to be very exciting to watch.”
The Titans need Tate to step in as a rookie and quickly develop into a consistent threat for Ward and the offense. The Titans lacked a true top wideout in 2025, and Ward had an up-and-down season. Now with the addition of Tate and veteran Wan’Dale Robinson, the young signal-caller appears to have the weapons to break out in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Carnell Tate’s impressive performance during Titans’ OTAs draws praise