COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State University wide receiver Carnell Tate is departing the program early to enter the NFL draft, according to sources familiar with the decision. The announcement, first reported by ESPN on Tuesday, marks the latest chapter in the Buckeyes' storied tradition of producing elite pass-catchers who transition seamlessly to the professional ranks.
Tate, a 6-foot-3, 195-pound standout, enjoyed a breakout junior season in 2023, hauling in 51 passes for 875 yards and nine touchdowns across 11 games. His performance came despite missing three contests due to injury, showcasing his resilience and talent on a team that fell just short of another national championship run. Sources indicated that Tate's decision to forgo his senior year was influenced by his strong projections in mock drafts, positioning him as a potential top-10 selection.
Throughout the season, Tate delivered several highlight-reel performances that underscored his NFL readiness. Against Minnesota, he exploded for 183 receiving yards, demonstrating his deep-threat ability. In the rivalry clash with Michigan, he snagged five catches for 82 yards and a touchdown, helping keep Ohio State's Big Ten title hopes alive. Earlier, versus Penn State, Tate racked up 124 yards and another score, solidifying his status as one of the conference's most dynamic players.
Over his three-year collegiate career, Tate amassed 1,872 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. His journey began promisingly as a true freshman in 2021, when he appeared in 13 games and showed flashes of brilliance. But it was his sophomore year in 2022 that truly elevated him, as he recorded 52 receptions for 733 yards on a Buckeyes squad that captured the national title. That campaign included a memorable playoff semifinal against Texas, where Tate contributed seven catches for 87 yards.
Ohio State's receiver pipeline has become the envy of college football, with Tate poised to extend an unprecedented streak. In the common draft era, the Buckeyes have seen wide receivers selected in the first round for four consecutive years—a feat no other program has matched. The run began with Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave going in 2022, followed by Jaxon Smith-Njigba in 2023, Marvin Harrison Jr. in 2024, and Emeka Egbuka just last year. Analysts project Tate to make it five straight, further cementing Ohio State's reputation as a factory for pro talent at the position.
"He's very smooth, fast and a good athlete. He has good hands and ball skills, as he reminds me of Pro Bowl receiver Chris Chambers, but a taller version, coming out of college," a veteran NFL scout told ESPN.
The scout's assessment highlights Tate's physical tools and technical prowess, drawing parallels to the former Miami Dolphins star known for his route-running finesse and reliability. At 20 years old, Tate's combination of size, speed, and production has scouts buzzing about his potential impact in the league. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. currently ranks him among the top-10 prospects in his big board, a testament to the high expectations surrounding his pro debut.
Tate's departure leaves a void in Ohio State's receiving corps, which has been the engine of its high-powered offense under coach Ryan Day. The Buckeyes have relied on a deep stable of talent at the position, but losing a player of Tate's caliber—especially after Egbuka's exit—could reshape their strategy heading into the 2024 season. Incoming recruits and returning players like sophomore Brandon Inniss will need to step up, but the program's recruiting prowess suggests it won't be long before another star emerges.
Background on Tate's recruitment adds context to his rapid rise. A five-star prospect out of IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, Tate chose Ohio State over powerhouses like Georgia and LSU in the 2021 class. His decision was influenced by the Buckeyes' track record of developing receivers into first-round picks, a promise the program has more than delivered on. From his debut against Akron as a freshman to his playoff heroics, Tate embodied the polish and poise that define Ohio State's wideout tradition.
The timing of Tate's declaration aligns with the early entry deadline for underclassmen, which typically falls in late January. While Ohio State officials have not issued an official statement, sources close to the program confirmed the move to ESPN, noting Tate's focus on preparing for the NFL Combine in February. Pre-draft workouts and interviews will be crucial for Tate, who aims to showcase his recovery from the injuries that sidelined him earlier this year.
Beyond the individual accolades, Tate's exit underscores broader trends in college football. The advent of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals has accelerated early departures, as top talents like Tate weigh immediate professional earnings against another year in school. At Ohio State, where NIL opportunities abound, Tate reportedly benefited from lucrative endorsements during his time in Columbus, further incentivizing his jump to the pros.
Looking ahead, the NFL draft landscape is rich with Buckeye talent. With Tate joining the fray, Ohio State could see multiple former players selected in the first round again, maintaining its status as a top feeder school. For Tate personally, the draft process will involve navigating workouts, pro days, and team visits, all leading to the April event in Detroit. Projections vary slightly among analysts, but the consensus is clear: Tate's smooth athleticism and production make him a blue-chip prospect.
In the wake of the news, Ohio State fans took to social media to celebrate Tate's contributions while expressing bittersweet sentiments about his departure. "Carnell Tate was electric—can't wait to see him ball out in the NFL," one supporter posted on X, formerly Twitter. The program's legacy at wide receiver, from legends like Joey Galloway to modern stars like Michael Thomas, provides a comforting backdrop as Tate embarks on the next phase of his career.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on how Ohio State rebuilds its offense without Tate's services. Coach Day has emphasized continuity and talent development, and with a strong 2024 recruiting class already in tow, the Buckeyes appear well-positioned. For Tate, the draft represents not just an end to his college chapter but the beginning of what promises to be a stellar professional journey.
The ripple effects of Tate's decision extend to the broader college football ecosystem. Programs nationwide aspire to replicate Ohio State's receiver dominance, but few have the combination of coaching, facilities, and recruiting pull to do so. As Tate prepares for his pro future, he leaves behind a blueprint for aspiring Buckeyes: talent plus opportunity equals NFL stardom.