Ohio State’s Carnell Tate reportedly makes key decision on 2026 NFL Draft

Jeff Hauser

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Ohio State’s Carnell Tate reportedly makes key decision on 2026 NFL Draft image

After a heartbreaking loss in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate has decided to turn the page.

The standout playmaker declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on Monday, according to ESPN insider Pete Thamel, ending a productive three-year run with the Ohio State Buckeyes. Tate is widely projected as a first-round selection and is expected to be a top-10 pick.

The 6-foot-3 wideout finished his Ohio State career with 121 receptions for 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns, consistently providing big-play ability in an offense headlined by star receiver Jeremiah Smith. While Smith commanded the majority of defensive attention, Tate’s route-running and physicality still caught the eye of NFL evaluators.

An NFL scout told ESPN that Tate is “very smooth, fast and a good athlete,” comparing him to former Pro Bowl receiver Chris Chambers, but with added size coming out of college.

Tate’s decision continues a familiar trend for Ohio State, which has produced a steady pipeline of NFL-ready wide receivers in recent years. His departure, however, leaves questions about the Buckeyes’ passing game moving forward, particularly with offensive coordinator Brian Hartline leaving for South Florida.

OSU Quarterback Julian Sayin and Smith are expected back, but Tate and Smith were the only Ohio State receivers to eclipse 300 receiving yards this season.

Without injury or an unexpected setback, Tate is on track to hear his name called on the draft’s opening night. Many project him as a top-ten pick. 

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Editorial Team