The Tennessee Titans officially kicked off their first rookie minicamp this morning at the Vanderbilt Health Football Center in Nashville, marking the start of a new chapter for the franchise. The two-day camp, running May 1-2, provides the team's eight draft picks, 11 undrafted free agents, and several tryout players their first opportunity to work on the field with head coach Robert Saleh and his staff.
For a team that has undergone significant roster turnover this offseason, this minicamp represents more than just an orientation. It's the initial step toward integrating the 2026 rookie class into a roster that general manager Mike Borgonzi has reshaped through bold moves in free agency and the draft. While pads won't be worn until training camp, these two days offer crucial early evaluation of the newest additions.
The Headliners: Tate and Faulk
All eyes naturally focus on the Titans' two first-round selections. With the fourth overall pick, Tennessee landed Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, a dynamic pass-catcher who immediately becomes the most explosive weapon in the team's receiving corps. Tate joins a group that already includes Calvin Ridley, Wan'Dale Robinson, and Xavier Restrepo, giving offensive coordinator Brian Daboll a versatile and deep set of targets.
Tate's arrival signals a clear commitment to upgrading the passing game. The Titans have invested heavily in quarterback Cam Ward, and providing him with a true No. 1 receiver who excels at vertical separation and after-the-catch yards should pay dividends. At 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds, Tate has the frame to win outside while also displaying the route-running nuance to thrive in the slot. Daboll is known for creatively deploying his playmakers in space, and Tate profiles as the kind of receiver who can move around the formation.
The other first-rounder, edge rusher Keldric Faulk out of Auburn, projects as an immediate contributor on defense. Taken 31st overall, Faulk injects youth and pass-rush energy opposite veteran Jermaine Johnson II and John Franklin-Myers. Standing 6-foot-3 and 260 pounds, Faulk brings length, burst, and a polished pass-rush skill set poised to transition quickly to the NFL level. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley has a track record of maximizing young edge defenders' talents, and Faulk's abilities align well with Bradley's versatile, aggressive scheme.
Beyond the First Round
The Titans' remaining six draft picks also have much to prove this weekend. Though the team has not disclosed all later picks publicly, the class includes reinforcements at several key positions. Early-round selections will compete immediately for rotational roles on both sides of the ball.
The Titans prioritized depth this offseason along the offensive line, at linebacker, and in the secondary. While stalwarts like JC Latham, Dan Moore Jr., and Peter Skoronski anchor the offensive front, adding depth was a key focus. Defensively, Tennessee has an experienced but aging core, and rookies able to contribute on special teams or in rotational duty have a clear path to a roster spot.
Undrafted Free Agents and Tryout Players
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of rookie minicamp is the opportunity it provides undrafted free agents and tryout players. History is full of undrafted players who used a strong minicamp to earn extended looks in training camp and ultimately roster spots. The Titans have 11 undrafted free agents at camp plus several tryout players hoping to impress.
For these players, every rep is critical. Mistakes are magnified, and evaluation is intense. However, the Titans' coaching staff, led by Saleh, has a reputation for giving every player a fair chance. Special teams coordinator John Fassel will monitor closely for players who can impact coverage units--often the fastest route to making the team for undrafted rookies.
One tryout player to watch is wide receiver Tyren Montgomery, who offers the size and speed that NFL teams covet. While the Titans' receiver group behind Ridley and Tate is deep yet unproven, a standout minicamp showing could earn Montgomery a practice squad roster spot with potential to grow.
What the Coaches Are Looking For
Minicamp is not about full playbook installation or padded contact but about fundamentals. The coaching staff wants to see how quickly players process information, how they conduct themselves in meetings, and how they respond to coaching corrections. Transitioning rookies from college to the fast pace of the NFL--even in shorts and shells--can be challenging.
Saleh, Daboll, and Bradley are hands-on during these two days. Saleh is known for detailed, engaged coaching and seeks players with football intelligence and competitive grit. Since taking over, the Titans' head coach has emphasized building a physical, disciplined culture, and rookies who buy in early earn respect.
Daboll focuses on quarterbacks and skill position players. Ward and veteran quarterbacks do not participate in rookie minicamp, but tutoring Tate and other offensive rookies begins now. Daboll's offense is demanding with route adjustments and pre-snap reads, so getting rookies comfortable with terminology and concepts is a priority.
Bradley oversees the defensive rookies with his multiple-front scheme that requires defensive backs to communicate effectively. Rookies demonstrating versatility by playing multiple positions or handling varied responsibilities will stand out amid a crowded depth chart.
Roster Implications
While no final roster decisions hinge solely on two days of non-contact work in May, minicamp sets an early tone. Rookies who struggle mentally or arrive out of shape may find themselves buried on the depth chart before training camp. Conversely, those who impress in meetings and show athleticism on the field build momentum for offseason development.
The Titans' roster is deep, but opportunities remain. At wide receiver, the battle for spots behind Ridley, Tate, and Robinson is wide open. Players like Bryce Oliver, Mason Kinsey, and Chimere Dike must hold off competition from incoming rookies. On the defensive line, Faulk's addition pressures veterans like Jacob Martin and Malik Herring to prove their value.
Linebacker and secondary groups also feature competitive battles. With Anthony Hill Jr., Cody Barton, and Mohamoud Diabate leading the linebackers, a rookie who excels on special teams could earn a roster spot. In the secondary, young depth behind Alontae Taylor, Cor'Dale Flott, and Amani Hooker has room to develop.
Looking Ahead
Rookie minicamp concludes Saturday, May 2. From there, the Titans will ramp into their full offseason program. Organized Team Activities (OTAs) begin mid-May, providing the first opportunity for veterans and rookies to practice together. That marks the true onset of competition.
For now, focus remains on these two days at Vanderbilt Health Football Center. The Titans' 2026 rookie class has arrived, and the process to build the next great Tennessee team starts now. If May's opening act is any indication, the energy and potential within this group are genuine. Translating that to wins this fall is the next challenge, but the foundation is clearly being laid today.