TRAINING CAMP PREVIEW: RECEIVERS
In camp (13): Calvin Ridley, Wan'Dale Robinson, Chimere Dike, Elic Ayomanor, Carnell Tate, Mason Kinsey, Courtney Jackson, Bryce Oliver, K.J. Osborn, Xavier Restrepo, Lance McCutcheon, Hank Beatty, Tyren Montgomery.
Player to watch: Carnell Tate. The Titans selected Tate with the fourth overall pick of the NFL Draft, and the rookie generated more buzz than anyone this offseason. In a few early OTAs, Tate made a pair of spectacular one-handed catches, and he looked smooth with just about everything he did. Tate was quieter in the later OTAs, but that could have been the result of others emerging. The reality is it's hard for rookies to make a big splash in the league, and I fully expect Tate to go through some growing pains. Just how quickly – and how much – will Tate be able to help right out of the gate in 2026? Well, we'll get some clues in camp.
What I've seen so far: I discussed Tate, who had his moments. But the receiver who ended the offseason with the most momentum was Wan'Dale Robinson. Early on, Robinson and quarterback Cam Ward seemed to struggle with getting on the same page, but I think that worked itself out some in June. Chimere Dike was also extremely productive in the latter OTAs, and Elic Ayomanor flashed plenty as well. No player caught more passes in the 7-on-7 and team drills than Xavier Restrepo, who led everyone with 26, ahead of Dike (21) and Robinson (20). I was impressed by veteran K.J. Osborn during the offseason work, and undrafted rookie Hank Beatty caught my eye as well. Mason Kinsey continued to battle, and Tyren Montgomery started his development. Veteran Calvin Ridley was quiet during the offseason as his work was limited.
What I think the Titans need to see in camp: The Titans would love to see Tate rise to the competition in padded practices, and have Ridley find his stride in camp. If the Cam Ward-Wan'Dale Robinson chemistry continues to succeed, that would be a great development as well. I suspect six spots are up for grabs on the 53, along with a few more on the practice squad. You can get to five quickly – Ridley, Robinson, Tate, Dike and Ayomanor – so, who claims the other spots? Health could play a role here. I've always liked Oliver, and he has big value on special teams. But Osborn and others will challenge, and the Titans would love to see a fierce battle that produces a deep and solid group.
Next up: Defensive end.
