Tennessee Titans rookie wide receiver Carnell Tate made an immediate impression when he first took the field during OTAs and continued to build on that momentum throughout minicamp.
He also displayed plenty of promise early in training camp, but his preseason performances have failed to produce the kind of statistical start the Titans and their fans were hoping for.
Carnell Tate’s Brutal Preseason Stat Line Has Titans Fans Seriously WorriedTate entered the Titans’ preseason finale looking to build on an impressive showing during Tennessee’s joint practice with the Chicago Bears. After recording zero catches across the first two preseason games, he broke out in the joint practice session, reportedly hauling in seven receptions on 12 targets.
However, that success did not carry over into an actual preseason game. Tate was unable to secure his only target during Tennessee’s 24-15 loss to Chicago on Saturday, ending his preseason without a reception.
Tate’s preseason numbers were certainly underwhelming, as he was targeted three times against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1 without recording a catch.
Tate followed that up with two targets and no receptions against the Seattle Seahawks, and then finished the Chicago game with one target and another catchless performance, triggering reactions from fans.
“Didn’t watch any of his film, but this stat line is wild,” one said.
“Don’t do Carnell like this lol,” a fan added.
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“I was just saying that. It’s preseason, but he had 4 easy catches all for drops in the 3 games,” another fan wrote.
The Titans selected Tate as the first wide receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft, making him the No. 4 overall pick. Tennessee expects him to become an important weapon for quarterback Cam Ward.
Titans receivers coach Greg Lewis has already praised Tate, describing him as one of the best rookies he has worked with. Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll also said Tuesday that the rookie is doing what he is supposed to do and praised the way he handles his responsibilities.
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However, some fans remain skeptical after watching Tate struggle to produce during the preseason.
“I’ve said it many times before. Bad teams should not be drafting skill players with early picks,” a fan said.
“I know it’s preseason, but even in the regular season, do you really think Cam Ward can consistently get him the ball? I don’t think so,” one added.
“About 1 month ago, I was a Cam Ward believer and had immense hope in the future of the Tennessee Titans. However, after their final preseason game, I’m not sure if this team will even be able to reach 6 wins. Their first-team offense looked putrid over the last 3 weeks. Carnell Tate was also an overdraft, and now Jeff Simmons will probably get traded to a contender this season,” Flea Flicker Football wrote.
Tate has made it clear that he is not allowing his limited preseason production to frustrate him. He understands that the ball will not always come his way and appears focused on making the most of his opportunities when they arrive.
There is a reason for the Titans to remain patient, as Tate finished the 2025 college football season with an 84.5 PFNCFB WR Impact grade, which ranked eighth nationally. His college production and draft pedigree suggest that the talent is there.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.
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