How former Wisconsin wide receiver fared in NFL preseason debut
In his first professional action since being selected with the No. 103 overall pick of the 2025 NFL draft, Dike reeled in one reception for six yards in Tennessee's 29-7 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday. His first catch as a professional arrived in the third quarter from backup quarterback Brandon Allen.
The former four-year Badger projects to suit up as the Titans' No. 2 slot wide receiver behind veteran pass-catcher Tyler Lockett. Wide receivers Calvin Ridley and Van Jefferson and tight end Chig Okonkwo are also forecasted to suit up alongside Lockett at the organization's starting unit on the outside.
Dike is one of several Badger playmakers on offense or defense to make their NFL preseason debuts this weekend, joining Hunter Wohler (Colts), Graham Mertz (Texans), Joe Huber (Vikings) and Jack Nelson (Falcons).
The Waukesha, Wisconsin, native appeared in 44 games for UW from 2020-23, totaling 97 receptions, 1,478 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. As a junior, he posted a career year with 47 catches, 689 yards and six scores before transferring to Florida ahead of the 2024 slate.
With Mertz under center with the Gators, Dike snagged 42 catches for a career-best 783 yards and two touchdowns. A strong performance at the combine resulted in the former Badger being the 15th wide receiver selected during the 2025 draft.
The Titans will trot out No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward at quarterback this season, with Dike lining up as a depth receiver. The franchise begins its season on Sept. 7 vs. the Denver Broncos.
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