Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan faces a critical decision regarding rookie wideout Carnell Tate, who missed his second consecutive practice session on Thursday due to a shoulder injury. The absence of the team’s leading receiver comes just days before a pivotal Week 8 showdown with the Cincinnati Bengals, forcing the Titans to evaluate whether Tate can withstand the physical demands of the matchup. While the injury report also listed running backs Tyjae Spears (knee) and Tony Pollard (rest), as well as punter Tommy Townsend (knee), Tate’s status remains the focal point for a struggling offensive line that has struggled to protect its quarterback.
Rookie star’s shoulder injury raises stakes for Tennessee’s Week 8 offense.
Tate, the fourth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, has emerged as the Titans’ primary aerial threat, leading the team with 34 receptions and 413 yards through seven games. However, his production has been tempered by ball security issues, including three fumbles—two of which were lost. With only one touchdown on the season, the pressure is on Tate to deliver a high-impact performance if he suits up, as the Titans look to break their recent scoring slump against a defense that has shown vulnerability to vertical attacks.
On the other side of the ball, Cincinnati Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase was listed as a non-participant in Thursday’s practice, though he was a full participant the previous day. This fluctuating status adds another layer of uncertainty to the game plan for both teams. Meanwhile, Titans receiver Calvin Ridley (hip) and defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers (groin) were limited in practice, while Bengals safety Jordan Battle (hamstring) also took a limited role. The final injury reports will determine the depth chart alignments, but the potential absence of Tate could significantly alter the Titans’ offensive strategy against Cincinnati.
Source: Yahoo Sports
