Carnell Tate NFL Draft Scouting Report

2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Ohio State WR Carnell Tate

Carnell Tate is the next wide receiver in the Ohio State pipeline of NFL-ready pass-catchers capable of emerging as a primary target at the next level. A former 5-star recruit in the 2023 class (per 247Sports), Tate combines polished route running, strong football intelligence, and a wide catch radius that makes him one of the most reliable targets in college football.

At 6’3”, 195 pounds, Tate brings a long, fluid frame and natural body control that help him play bigger than his listed size. In 2024, he caught 52 passes for 733 yards and 4 touchdowns, flashing the kind of alignment versatility and detail that translate to a high-end NFL starter. He’s not a pure burner, but his combination of size, savvy, and spatial awareness allows him to consistently uncover in the intermediate levels of the field.

Film Summary

Tate’s tape shows a polished technician with a strong understanding of leverage, timing, and defensive manipulation. He’s a smooth, composed mover who wins with pacing and precision rather than elite twitch. His ability to throttle down, stack defenders, and adjust to zone coverage makes him a quarterback-friendly option across all alignments.

Ideal Scheme Fit

West Coast / Spread Hybrid Offense — systems emphasizing layered concepts, play-action, and timing routes. Tate thrives in rhythm-based passing games that value route precision over vertical explosion.

Key Strengths (Film-Based Traits)

• Savvy route running: Nuanced and detailed with stems and break points. Sells vertical routes effectively, manipulates leverage, and creates consistent separation underneath and on intermediate routes.

• Elite catch radius and body control: Extends naturally away from his frame, plucks the football cleanly, and wins in contested-catch situations. Excellent timing and elevation at the catch point.

• Versatility and football IQ: Understands spacing and leverage against both man and zone coverage. Can line up at X, Z, or slot — allowing creative personnel usage.

• Reliable hands: Soft and steady at the catch point; rarely double-clutches or body-catches.

• Blocking toughness: Shows effort and technique in the run game, sealing edges and engaging defenders to spring teammates.

Developmental Areas (Growth Opportunities)

• Top-end speed: Lacks elite vertical burst; must rely on craft and deception to win deep rather than pure separation speed.

• Yards after catch: Limited twitch and second-gear acceleration restrict his ability to turn short passes into explosive plays.

• Play strength: Can allow physical corners to linger in his hip pocket. Needs to develop more lower-body power to fight through contact and reroutes.

• Route transitions: Long-legged stride occasionally leads to segmented breaks, tipping his intentions at the top of routes.

Grade and Projection

• Football Scout 365 Grade: Near Elite. A high-caliber prospect expected to become a significant contributor by Year 2. Displays strong football IQ, advanced route technique, and reliable hands with only minor athletic limitations.

• NFL Draft Projection: Mid-to-Late 1st Round

• Pro Comparison: Tee Higgins / Tyler Boyd hybrid — a savvy, long-framed possession target with WR1 upside in rhythm-based offenses.

Final Analysis

Carnell Tate embodies the next evolution of Ohio State’s receiver factory — a tall, fluid, and technically refined pass-catcher who wins with precision, intelligence, and poise. He projects as a high-end starter with Pro Bowl potential in an offense that values detail and timing. While he may never threaten defenses vertically with blazing speed, his ability to separate through technique and body control will translate seamlessly to the NFL.

If he adds functional strength and modestly improves his burst, Tate has the ceiling to become a true No. 1 receiver at the next level — the kind of dependable target who keeps drives alive and consistently wins in high-leverage moments.