Carnell Tate is making waves as a potential top wide receiver prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. After a strong 2025 season with Ohio State, scouts are eager to see where he lands. This report dives into Tate’s potential, analyzing his skills, current projections, and where he ranks among other top prospects. It’s a must-read for NFL enthusiasts and draft analysts alike.
Tate’s journey from a highly-touted recruit to a dominant force on the field showcases his dedication and talent. He has become a key player in Ohio State’s explosive offense, consistently making game-changing plays. This report examines Tate’s strengths, weaknesses, and overall impact on the field.
Inside this profile, you’ll find:
- An in-depth look at Carnell Tate’s NFL Draft potential
- Analysis of where Tate is projected to be selected
- A comparison of Tate’s ranking against other top NFL Draft prospects
Carnell Tate’s NFL Draft Potential
Carnell Tate has transformed himself into a WR1 candidate for the 2026 NFL Draft. He entered the 2025 season ready to prove his worth, after playing a supporting role to Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith. Now, Tate stands out as an equally compelling force, opposite Smith, showcasing his talent and hard work.
In 2024, Tate recorded 52 catches for 733 yards and four touchdowns. He has surpassed his touchdown total in 2025 and is on track for career-best numbers. According to PFN’s Draft Top 100 Big Board, Tate holds the No. 9 spot. His PFF grade of 83.2 ranks 11th nationally. TruMedia reports that he’s generating 1.13 EPA per target and has a 25.8% catch rate over expectation. The numbers and film prove that Tate has reinvented his game.
At 6’3″ and 195 pounds, Tate has always possessed size, length, and explosive athleticism. His body control at the catch point is exceptional. In 2024, concerns arose regarding his pressing, pacing, and footwork at route stems. However, in 2025, he’s become a route artist, skillfully manipulating space. He uses his long-strider speed and smooth hips to stem defenders out of upfield attack paths on the vertical plane. In the short and intermediate ranges, he wins with tempo, throttle control, deception, and sudden feet on slants, corners, comebacks, and outs.
Tate’s strengths have remained consistent. His high catch rate reflects his ability to make difficult adjustments and secure tight-window throws, even amidst contact. While he may not be as versatile as other receivers, Tate is a WR1 candidate and a contender for early-to-mid first-round capital. He projects as an X or movement-Z WR, similar to Amani Toomer or Muhsin Muhammad.
CFB Week 9 Update
Ohio State had a bye in Week 9 but will face the Penn State Nittany Lions in Week 10. The Penn State secondary features potential NFL talent, including A.J. Harris, a fellow Top 100 prospect. Elliot Washington could also be a draftable CB talent, and safety Zakee Wheatley offers explosiveness and physicality.
With Jeremiah Smith drawing defensive attention, Tate may line up against Washington or nickel DB Zion Tracy more often. He has almost solidified his potential, but another strong performance against Penn State’s NFL-caliber secondary would further boost his stock.
Where Is Tate Being Selected Most Often in the PFSN Mock Draft Simulator?
Tate is currently ranked No. 8 overall among prospects, indicating his elite status. As of October 27, his Average Draft Position (ADP) is 10.9, reflecting consistent first-round selection.
The small gap between rank and ADP shows that evaluators value him consistently, even with the fluctuations in player evaluations.
Users controlling the New York Giants have selected Tate most frequently over the past week, accounting for 2.2% of their picks. Cleveland Browns’ first-round selections used Tate in 3.3% of their picks, highlighting a strong preference for him as an immediate-impact receiver.
Try the free PFN Mock Draft Simulator and be the GM of your favorite team!
Where Does Carnell Tate Rank Amongst Other NFL Draft Prospects?
Tate is currently ranked No. 9 overall in the October 2026 NFL Draft Big Board. He ranks third among WR prospects, trailing Jordyn Tyson and Makai Lemon. This top-10 ranking positions Tate as one of the elite prospects in the 2026 class.
See how all the draft prospects rank in the PFSN Mock Draft Simulator, which includes over 750 prospects.
Carnell Tate has emerged as a top-tier wide receiver prospect, showcasing exceptional talent and growth throughout the 2025 season. His ability to evolve his game, combined with his natural athleticism, makes him a highly sought-after player in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Tate’s consistent performance against top competition, coupled with his impressive metrics, solidifies his status as a potential WR1 at the professional level. NFL teams looking for a dynamic and reliable receiver will undoubtedly have their eyes on Carnell Tate.
As the draft approaches, it will be interesting to see where Tate lands and how he impacts his new team. One thing is for sure: Carnell Tate is a name to watch in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Leave a Reply