The Tennessee Titans are staring down a Week 8 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, and man, the injury report is a punch to the gut. Rookie Carnell Tate, who has been absolutely lighting it up as their leading receiver this season, missed practice for the second day in a row. It is all because of a shoulder injury, and that is a massive blow heading into what will surely be a tough game.
Tate’s Absence Leaves a Huge Hole
When your leading receiver, especially a rookie who is making such an impact, cannot even hit the practice field for two days straight, you know things are serious. Tate’s shoulder injury is definitely a concern. He is the guy they count on to move the chains, to be that primary target, and having him sidelined for practice ahead of a game means the offense is scrambling. You have to wonder how much this throws off their game plan. This is Week 8, not some preseason scrimmage, and a healthy roster is everything right now.
More Key Players Out or Limited for Tennessee
It is not just Tate, either. The Titans’ injury report listed a few other key players who were not practicing on Thursday. Running back Tyjae Spears was out with a knee injury, and veteran running back Tony Pollard also sat out for rest. Punter Tommy Townsend was also sidelined with a knee issue. You never want to see that many guys out during a critical week of prep.
Adding to the list of concerns, wide receiver Calvin Ridley was limited in practice due to a hip injury, and defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers was also limited with a groin issue. When you have starters and playmakers not at 100% or not practicing at all, it makes a Week 8 road game against a divisional rival a lot harder.
The Titans are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals, and they will need every able body on the field to get a win. With Carnell Tate’s status up in the air and several other players dealing with various ailments, the coaching staff has their work cut out for them to get this team ready.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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