NASHVILLE – Carnell Tate exploded on the scene during offseason workouts, making one highlight-reel catch after another during OTAs and minicamp.
Tate, selected fourth overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, has been quieter at the start of training camp, in part because his opportunities have been more limited.
But the talented receiver made a big splash in Tuesday's session when he hauled in a deep ball from quarterback Cam Ward, reminding everyone once again why the team drafted him so early.
A day earlier, Tate was asked about his expectations for the 2026 season.
"I just go out there and play football," Tate said. "If you don't have expectations, you aren't doing something right. I just go out there and play football and have fun."
Tate has six catches through the first five practices of training camp, with Tuesday's play providing the biggest highlight. Tate caught 17 passes in the team's seven open practices during May and June.
Tate, who is just 21 years old, said he's focused on learning the playbook and quizzing the team's veteran receivers. On several occasions over the past few days, Tate and veteran Calvin Ridley have been seen chatting during breaks in the action.
"I try to pick Ridley's brain as much as possible," Tate said. "I am just soaking it in, trying to get better here and there and just preparing myself for the season and ultimately learning and getting ready."
The past year has been a whirlwind for Tate, and it hasn't slowed down.
Even during the break in July, Tate and the team's other receivers traveled to work with Ward, and others.
It's all about doing everything possible to be ready for the season.
"For me it has been non-stop, from the end of the season to the combine to the draft to the visits to the OTAs to camp," Tate said. "It has been non-stop football, which I love, I'm not complaining at all. I get to go out there and play football."
