NASHVILLE — Few saw Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate being the Tennessee Titans selection on Thursday night. That was, in fact, general manager Mike Borgonzi’s choice in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

It was the safest possible option for a team with dire needs everywhere.

Was Carnell Tate the BEST option

That is another question entirely.

A sudden flurry of reports emerged in the lead up to Thursday night that the Arizona Cardinals could select Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Arizona did end up drafting Love at No. 3 overall. Prospects like linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles on the board. Both Reese and Styles are regarded as higher-end talent.

Tate is the most well-rounded receiver in the draft. He is also considered a more average projection at the NFL level.

At 21 years old, the two-year starter finished his college career with 121 receptions for 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns. Tate measured in at 6’2-1/4 and 192 pounds. 2025 No. 1 overall pick, Cam Ward, desperately needs help at every position on offense.

Tate provides an immediate starting-caliber option for Ward as he looks to take his career to the next level after a 3-14 rookie finish.

Titans continue to invest on offense

Tennessee did add receiver Wan’Dale Robinson and tight end Daniel Bellinger.

They’ll play meaningful roles this year, high-end skill help is something the Titans still lack. This year’s draft class had two near-consensus top options that general manager Mike Borgonzi could pick from at No. 4 overall.

Love and Tate were those options.

“I’m a little surprised I haven’t heard that question starting at Pick No. 2.,” Jeremiah said recently in an appearance on The Buck Reising Show of the Titans potentially taking Tate. “if you’re thinking about the Jets and their thought process of trying to lay the foundation for their quarterback that they would add in 2027. When you’re ranked as my sixth-best player, people and teams are going to have it a little different here or there, but that’s absolutely in the range in the ballpark if you’re picking No. 4. I mean, without question, they’re doing their homework on him and I’d applaud it if they did it.”

Even Tate was taken by surprise with the pick.

“I knew they were a thought,” said Tate of the Titans. “I didn’t have any idea that I was going to go this early.”

Featured Image: USA TODAY Sports.