Carnell Tate Misses Another Practice, and the Titans Offense Is Holding Its Breath

Titans fans, nobody wants to hear the word shoulder attached to the rookie who has been the best thing about this offense. But here we are, two practices into the week and Carnell Tate still hasn't practiced.

Our Take: Don't panic yet, but do brace for it. Tate has been the clear No. 1 receiver, and nobody on this roster does exactly what he does. If he sits, the offense has to find its big plays somewhere else, and that is a tall order.

According to NBC Sports, Tate (shoulder) did not practice Thursday after also missing Wednesday, which makes him truly questionable for Sunday. NBC's Kyle Dvorchak writes that Tate has been operating as the Titans' clear WR1, and that second-year wideout Elic Ayomanor is the most likely receiver to see more work if Tate can't go, with Wan'Dale Robinson's slot role not overlapping much with Tate's job.

CBS Sports, citing Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site, adds that the rookie fourth overall pick gets one more chance to practice in some capacity Friday. If Tate misses a game for the first time in his young career, CBS says Ayomanor and Calvin Ridley, who is dealing with a hip issue of his own, could see more downfield targets.

What to watch: Friday's final injury report. If Tate gets on the field in any capacity, that's a good sign. If he's listed out, watch how Ayomanor is used early, because the Titans offense needs someone to stretch the field and keep the defense honest.

Sources: NBC Sports, CBS Sports