The Titans used the No. 4 pick on offense, and that choice has already set up a new storyline around Cam Ward. Instead of adding another defender after free agency, Tennessee gave Ward a young receiver to grow with in Carnell Tate, passing on names like Arvell Reese, Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles.
That move matters because Ward now has a real chance to show he can be the face of the franchise in Nashville. Tate was never Ohio State’s clear No. 1 option, but that had more to do with sharing an offense with Jeremiah Smith than any lack of ability. Tennessee is betting that Tate’s role can expand fast.
That optimism showed up in a recent power rankings list from Sayre Bedinger of NFL Spin Zone. Bedinger ranked Tate No. 2 on his list of the top 10 Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates for 2026, trailing only Jeremiyah Love of the Arizona Cardinals.
" With [Cam] Ward expected to break out this upcoming season, Tate could be the guy he's looking to more often than others. If Carnell Tate can become Cam Ward's favorite target, how could henotbe one of the top 2-3 contenders for Offensive Rookie of the Year?" said Bedinger.
" He's coming from the Ohio State program, which seemingly is able to crank out NFL-ready receiver prospects annually. He is going to be coming to the Titans ready to contribute as a WR1, and I wouldn't be surprised if he helps elevate that entire offense right away." Bedinger added.
The idea is simple enough: if Ward takes the step forward Bedinger expects, Tate could be the receiver who helps drive it. That kind of pairing would give Tennessee a much better shot at avoiding a sophomore slump at quarterback and instead turning this draft pick into a real offensive jump.
The comparison point is already there. Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan won the award last season with Bryce Young at quarterback.
Young improved, but Bedinger’s point is that Ward brings even more upside. With Tate in the mix, the Titans are hoping that upside shows up quickly.
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