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Ohio State WR Carnell Tate declares for the 2026 NFL Draft
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Carnell Tate is going pro. The Ohio State standout wide receiver announced Tuesday night via social media that he has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. He thanked multiple Ohio State coaches, including head coach Ryan Day and position coach Brian Hartline, who recently departed for the head coaching job at USF.
“THANK YOU LORD… for the gift of life and for guiding me every step of the way. I am deeply grateful for your sacrifice and the blood you shed for my salvation. Thank you for showing me your path and leading me closer to you each day,” Tate wrote.
“To my Mom, I thank you for everything. The one that was there for me when no one else was. The one who made sure I had everything I needed. The one I would call and talk to just for about anything. The first person I wanted to call when things were going good. You’ve inspired me to be better and do big things. Made me believe no dream or goa was out of reach. You were my biggest supporter, and you made sure I knew and felt that as well as the world. I am forever in debt to you. love you mom.
“To my Dad, you’ve taught me how to be a man and embrace the hardships of this thing called life. You ve been my best friend through rock bottom and appreciate you each and every day and I will continue to look up to you.
“Being a Buckeye has been an amazing ride that I will cherish for the rest of my life. 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.
“After careful consideration, I have decided to take the next step in my career and declare for the NFL Draft. 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 leaves after his true junior season. He had 1 remaining season of eligibility in college.
Over the past 3 seasons, Tate played in 40 games. He saw his role increase over the years, as he snagged 121 receptions for 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Tate was a key piece on OSU’s national championship team, recording a career-high 52 catches in 2024 for 733 yards and 4 touchdowns. This past season, Tate posted career bests in receiving yards (875) and touchdowns (9).
— Carnell Tate (@carnelltate_) January 7, 2026
A former Florida beat reporter, Andrew writes for the Saturday Tradition News Desk.