Robert Saleh isn’t losing hope on Carnell Tate anytime soon. The Titans picked Tate as No. 4 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft as a potential top passing weapon for Cam Ward. Now, he is still sticking to his decision, showing confidence in Tate even when things appear to be going south.
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“When it’s time to scheme, we’ll get guys the rock,” Titans head coach Robert Saleh said to the media, as reported by Underdog NFL on X.
Tate has not caught any passes despite getting five targets in two preseason games. However, it is too early to worry about him because he is still a rookie. On top of it, Carnell Tate took a hard hit during practice last week and missed a few days afterward. The Titans later said he was held out because of general stiffness unrelated to the hit, and Saleh ruled out a concussion. He returned to practice on Friday and also played against the Seahawks.
And Saleh understands it, as even after his shaky performance against the 49ers, he praised him.
“I thought he was very physical in the run game,” Saleh said after the game against the 49ers. “… He played physical, he played fast. He was winning his one-on-ones when he was getting those opportunities. As time goes on, we’ll find ways to give him the ball.”
That confidence stems from how he looked during the offseason program, where Tate made several notable catches during OTAs and minicamp. He’d hauled in six catches across the first five training camp practices, with the standout moment coming on August 4.
On August 4, Tate caught a 70-yard touchdown pass from Cam Ward during practice. Then, on August 9, he had another great practice, catching three touchdown passes. Overall, Tate caught 17 passes in the team’s seven open practices during May and June.
Tate’s strong college career gives Robert Saleh another reason to trust him. In three seasons at Ohio State, Tate caught 121 passes for 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns. In his final season in 2025, he had 51 catches for 875 yards and nine touchdowns. Plus, Tate dropped only five passes on 161 targets in three seasons at Ohio State.
However, Carnell Tate still has to step up and prove himself because the Titans already have several good wide receivers. Wan’Dale Robinson is expected to have an important role, while Calvin Ridley brings experience to the team. The Titans also have young receivers Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike, who are competing for playing time.
Now, let’s wait and see if Carnell Tate can build on Saleh’s trust in the 2026 season.