The Tennessee Titans pulled the first stunner of the 2026 NFL Draft. After the Arizona Cardinals chose running back Jeremiyah Love at No. 3 overall, the Titans selected Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate with the fourth pick. It represents a commitment to the development of franchise quarterback Cam Ward.
The Titans entered the offseason needing to surround Ward with additional weapons as he prepares for a massive sophomore season. General manager Mike Borgonzi immediately went to work by signing Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency. Still lacking a true No. 1 wideout despite also having Calvin Ridley on the roster, the Titans are attempting to address that need by adding Tate.
Tate projects as the new "X" receiver in Tennessee's offense. With Ridley and Robinson probably filling out the other receiver spots in 11 personnel, the Titans now boast a solid trio of starting receivers. Ward's NFL Draft dreams came true with the selection of Tate.
NFL Draft: Titans invest in QB Cam Ward by selecting WR Carnell Tate with No. 4 overall pick
Tate played on a loaded Buckeyes offense this past season. Despite playing opposite a generational receiver in Jeremiah Smith, Tate was still incredibly productive. The Chicago, Illinois native registered 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns while averaging an explosive 17.2 yards per catch.
The Titans also have Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor as depth receivers. With Tate joining those two sophomore wideouts in addition to Ridley and Robinson, the Titans have legitimate competition at receiver for the first time in a long time. That's an excellent problem for quarterback Ward as he attempts to establish himself as a high-caliber starter.
Tate was the consensus top-ranked receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-2, 192-pound wideout is a complete playmaker with size, speed, and vertical ability. He's an excellent contested catch winner who also separates from coverage at the short, intermediate, and deep levels.
Tate displays savvy route running ability and separation burst with consistency. He also possesses elite hands at the catch point with reliability. Ward is going to be thrilled to grow alongside Tate in Brian Daboll's offense.
The Titans are obviously invested in Ward's development as last year's No. 1 overall selection. Choosing Tate with the fourth pick is essentially a double-down in Ward and his upside. A massive sophomore season looms for Tennessee's quarterback, and the Titans just made a move designed to make his life easier.
Add us as a preferred source on Google