Brian Daboll Puts Carnell Tate on Notice After Titans Draft Surprise
The Tennessee Titans selected Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, signaling a focus on building their offense around young quarterback Cam Ward. Despite Tate's high draft status and polished college resume, offensive coordinator Brian Daboll emphasized that he must earn playing time like any other rookie. Tate joins a receiver group led by Calvin Ridley but faces competition despite being viewed as a potential immediate starter.
- ▪The Tennessee Titans drafted Carnell Tate with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- ▪Tate recorded 51 catches, 875 yards, and nine touchdowns in his junior season at Ohio State, earning a PFF receiving grade of 90.2.
- ▪Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll stated that Tate must earn his playing time despite being a top-five draft pick.
- ▪Tate joins a wide receiver room that includes Calvin Ridley, Wan’Dale Robinson, and other depth players.
- ▪The Titans finished the previous season with a 3–14 record and are prioritizing offensive improvement around quarterback Cam Ward.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
By Rowan Fisher-ShottonShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.In a class where most projections had the Tennessee Titans leaning defense under new head coach Robert Saleh, the franchise instead grabbed Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, widely viewed as the most polished pass-catcher in the class, with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.It was a strong signal that the Titans are building around offense, not patching holes on defense. And more specifically, they’re investing in weapons for their young quarterback Cam Ward.
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