Sat Nov 08 19:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Ohio State WR Carnell Tate Rockets Up Draft Boards After Stellar Season

Columbus, OH – Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate is rapidly ascending NFL Draft boards after a breakout 2025 season, transforming from an underachieving five-star recruit to a potential first-round pick and WR1 candidate in the 2026 NFL Draft. Once playing second fiddle to Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith, Tate has emerged as a dominant force, showcasing improved route running, elite separation skills, and exceptional catch-point ability.

In 2025, Tate has racked up impressive numbers, exceeding his 2024 touchdown total and on pace for career highs in receptions and yards. His PFSN CFB WRi grade ranks 11th nationally, fueled by a remarkable 25.8% catch rate over expectation and a 1.13 EPA per target, according to TruMedia.

Scouts highlight Tate’s 6’3″, 195-pound frame and explosive athleticism, but his refined route running and spatial manipulation have been the key to his transformation. Analysts praise his ability to create separation and make difficult catches in tight coverage, drawing comparisons to NFL veterans like Amani Toomer and George Pickens.

“Tate is an elite separator and catch-point operator, and those two skills are absolutely crucial for success in the league,” one scout noted.

Despite a Week 9 bye, Tate continued his impressive performance in Week 10 against Penn State, securing five receptions for 124 yards and a touchdown against a Nittany Lions secondary loaded with potential NFL talent.

Currently ranked No. 7 overall on the PFSN Draft Big Board and No. 1 among wide receiver prospects, Tate is projected as an early-to-mid first-round pick. Mock drafts show a particular interest from teams like the Cleveland Browns, who have frequently selected him in mock drafts, suggesting a strong desire for the young receiver’s immediate impact potential.

Fans can test their own GM skills with the free PFSN Mock Draft Simulator to see where Tate lands and how he fits into their team’s future.

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