Carnell Tate, a wide receiver from Ohio State, has established himself as a significant contender for the upcoming NFL Draft, currently holding the No. 7 spot on the NFL Draft Top 100 Big Board. This scouting report delves into Tate’s potential, his recent performances, and his standing among the top draft prospects.
Entering the 2025 season, Tate was seen as an underutilized talent and a former five-star recruit, often overshadowed by teammates Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith. However, Tate has emerged as a standout WR1, showing remarkable growth and making a strong case for consideration in the 2026 NFL Draft. His impressive performance attests to his natural ability as well as the dedication he has applied to enhance his game.
In the previous year, Tate recorded 52 receptions for 733 yards and four touchdowns, but he has already surpassed his touchdown count in the current season. As of now, he is on track to post career-best statistics across the board. With a PFSN CFB WRi grade of 83.2, placing him 11th in the nation, he is producing an efficient 1.13 expected points added per target, along with an impressive 25.8% catch rate over expectation. His remarkable improvement on the field is evident through his statistical output as well as his game tape.
Physically, Tate is an impressive athlete at 6’3″ and 195 pounds, exhibiting explosive vertical capabilities and excellent body control during catches. While his 2024 season highlighted some inconsistencies in pressing and pacing, 2025 has seen him develop into a refined route runner. He has shown the ability to effectively manipulate defenders, utilizing his speed and spatial awareness. Tate’s route tree includes successful slants, corners, comebacks, and out routes, all executed with precision.
Tate’s ability to make difficult catches and his remarkable focus have further solidified his reputation among scouts and NFL evaluators. Although he may not possess the same run-after-catch threats as some of his peers, his comprehensive skill set positions him as a viable WR1 prospect, likely to be selected in the early to mid-first round. He mirrors the styles of accomplished receivers like Amani Toomer and George Pickens.
As Ohio State approaches a challenging matchup against the Penn State Nittany Lions, Tate’s performance on the field is sure to draw significant attention. The Nittany Lions feature a secondary with NFL-caliber talent, including A.J. Harris, which means Tate could face tough competition. Nevertheless, his ability to shine in such circumstances will undoubtedly affirm his status as a top prospect.
Tate’s continued dominance was evident in Week 10 against Penn State, where he caught just five passes yet amassed 124 yards and scored a touchdown. This performance underscored his elite skills, particularly in separating from defenders and making adjustments on under-thrown passes, crucial abilities that bode well for his NFL career.
Currently, Tate ranks No. 8 overall in mock drafts, with an average draft position of 10.9 as of late October, indicating a strong first-round selection likelihood. Notably, users of the Cleveland Browns mock draft simulator have shown overwhelming support for him, suggesting he could be a key addition to their roster.
As Tate continues to impress with each game, his reputation as not only an elite prospect but the top wide receiver in the 2026 draft class becomes increasingly solidified. Fans and scouts alike are eager to see how the remainder of his season unfolds, and how he will translate his college success to the professional level.