Ohio State Star WR Carnell Tate Declares For 2026 NFL Draft
As the college football season comes to a close, we’re going to start seeing superstar prospects declare for the NFL Draft as they look to start their pro careers. The latest name to declare is Ohio State Wide Receiver Carnell Tate. He is a projected top 10 pick in the upcoming draft.
Tate Is Heading To the NFL
Tate enters the upcoming draft as one of its premier prospects and is widely regarded as the top wide receiver available. This season, Tate hauled in 51 receptions for 875 yards and 9 touchdowns for the Buckeyes. He’ll aim to continue Ohio State’s impressive streak of first-round wide receiver selections, potentially making it five straight years. At only 20 years old, he’s already an advanced route runner, recorded zero drops throughout the season, and secured an impressive 85.7% of his contested catch opportunities.
Early comparisons include George Pickens, who has blossomed into a star in his first season with the Dallas Cowboys. Both players share a similar frame, but he is expected to be drafted higher and could make an immediate impact. As teams continue to prioritize giving their young quarterbacks more weapons, many general managers are expected to target him. Leading contenders include the Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, and New Orleans Saints.
The Titans desperately need another receiver to support Cam Ward, who played with arguably the weakest supporting cast in the NFL. The Saints, following a promising rookie year from Tyler Shough, may look to create an elite Ohio State duo by pairing Chris Olave with Tate. The Giants remain the draft’s X factor, facing several major roster gaps. With Malik Nabers still recovering from a torn ACL, General Manager Joe Schoen may make a bold move to provide Jaxson Dart with another elite-level wideout.
Who Will Take Over For Tate?
The Buckeyes have suffered major losses in the Transfer Portal, with top wide receivers Quincy Porter and Mylan Graham, both five-star recruits, departing the program. Following Brian Hartline’s move to become head coach at the University of South Florida, the Buckeyes’ receiving corps has taken a significant hit. Five-star recruit Chris Henry Jr. is now poised to step into a leading role.
Henry, a towering wideout at 6’5″, was among the most coveted receivers in the 2026 recruiting class. However, Ohio State’s situation could shift rapidly if the team secures another receiver from the portal.
If Henry isn’t ready to contribute at a high level next season, Brandon Inniss is the next likely candidate to step up. Returning for another year with increased playing time would greatly benefit his draft stock, potentially making him a crucial part of the offense alongside superstar Jeremiah Smith.
