The Tennessee Titans have a potential star in their first-round pick at wide receiver, Carnell Tate. You wouldn't know it by the box score. Rest assured, when the Titans make him a focal point of the offense, he will become a household name.
Despite the fact that the Titans have one of the worst passing offenses in the NFL, Tate is on pace for 75 receptions and 700 yards. In 2025, only two rookie receivers had more receiving yards than that (Tetairoa McMillan and Emeka Egbuka), and neither had more receptions.
Instead of being frustrated with what isn't happening, fans should be optimistic that Tate is able to produce even when nothing is going right with the passing game. Imagine what will happen when Cam Ward finally feeds Tate.
Titans rookie WR Carnell Tate could have his breakout game in Week 4
The reality of the situation is that Elic Ayomanor has been the team's most explosive wide receiver, and Wan'Dale Robinson is the shiftiest receiver on the roster, But the one who has consistently been open for the most big plays is Tate. With Ayomanor having a breakout game in Week 2 against the Philadelphia Eagles, and Robinson having a nice performance in Week 3 against the New York Giants, it is just a matter of time before Tate gets his turn. It could be against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 4.
It seems like Brian Daboll and the offensive staff have been trying to let Ward develop in the system and go through his reads so that he can progress as a quarterback. However, they may be nearing the point where they need to make things very simple for their struggling young passer and set up plays specifically designed to get the ball to Tate.
It has been pointed out on social media that the Titans called the same play twice in the redzone in Week 3 that should have gone to Tate. Despite being open both times, Ward didn't throw it his way for some reason. The young quarterback is struggling right now.
Carnell Tate can get Cam Ward out of this funk
If Ward is thinking too much and still isn't seeing plays develop, then the coaches need to try to find a way to make it an even easier decision for him. This season, Ward has been at his best on play-action passes or when the Titans are playing with tempo. Both of those things should set up perfectly for situations where Tate can get an advantage in coverage and create separation.
The fact is, with better quarterback play, Tate is probably close to double the production through three games. What is done is done, though, and all the Titans can do is try to get the ball to Tate going forward. Look for them to make that a point of emphasis versus the Ravens in Week 4.
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