Star Ohio State wideout Carnell Tate declares for 2026 NFL Draft

Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate is headed to the draft. 

Tate, a junior, announced in a social media post on Tuesday night that he was planning to turn pro and enter the 2026 NFL Draft.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to take the next step in my career and declare for the NFL Draft,” Tate wrote in his statement while also thanking his family and coaches. “I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished at Ohio State and will carry the lessons, relationships, and memories from this program with me forever.”

Tate spent three seasons at Ohio State and is coming off a career-best year when he recorded 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. 

The receiver has been projected by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. as a top-10 pick. 

Over his three years — which included a national title in 2024 — in Columbus, Tate had 121 catches for 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns.

“Being a Buckeye has been an amazing ride that I will cherish for the rest of my life,” he wrote. “From day one, I’ve always dreamed of playing for this program and it has been a dream come true. This program has pushed me to be my best, taught me how to compete at the highest level, and given me memories and relationships I’ll never forget.

“Thank you to Coach Hartline, Coach Day, Coach AT, Kaila, Stew, and CJ for their guidance, mentorship, and for pushing me every single day. Your lessons on and off the field have made me a better player and a better person.

“It’s been an honor to be part of Zone 6. Thank you to everyone in the group for challenging me, pushing me, and helping me grow both on and off the field.”

Ohio State has had a strong showing for receivers in the draft, with five players at the position being taken in the first round over the last four years: Garrett Wilson (Jets), Chris Olave (Saints), Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seahawks), Marvin Harrison Jr. (Cardinals) and Emeka Egbuka (Buccaneers).