Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Carnell Tate has just received arguably the biggest endorsement of his young career.
In Pro Football Network’s latest two-round mock draft, analyst Ian Cummings projected Tate as the No. 4 overall pick to the Tennessee Titans, a stunning prediction that places the junior among the draft’s most coveted prospects.
For Tate, this isn’t just a mock draft line; it’s a public coronation. The 6-foot-3, 195-pound pass-catcher has transformed into Ohio State’s offensive centerpiece in 2025. Through mid-October, he’s amassed 587 receiving yards and six touchdowns, routinely turning regular routes into explosive gains. His blend of size, body control, and route nuance has silenced early doubters who questioned his ceiling after a quieter freshman year.
Cummings’ projection underscores Tate’s rare skill set.
“(Tate) immediately skews the defense’s attention and opens opportunities for others,” he wrote, pointing to the junior’s ability to command coverage and create space for teammates.
In Columbus, that means easier looks for running backs and other receivers. In the NFL, it means redefining an offense.
Scouts have long praised Tate’s catch-point dominance. He attacks the ball at its highest point, using long arms and soft hands to secure contested throws. His stem releases are crisp, footwork deceptive, and yards-after-catch bursts electric—traits that translate directly to Sunday success.
At Ohio State, Tate plays in an NFL-style system under Ryan Day, facing press-man coverage weekly. That preparation has accelerated his development. Now, with this top-five projection, Tate could join an exclusive club of Buckeye receivers—Garrett Wilson, Marvin Harrison Jr.—who’ve heard their names called early on draft night.
For Tate, the prediction is fuel. He’s spoken openly about modeling his game after elite route technicians. This mock draft validates that path, placing him in the same conversation as recent WR1s.
Tennessee’s need aligns perfectly, but the prediction is about Tate’s readiness. He’s not just a college star—he’s being scouted as a pro cornerstone. And with every ball he hauls in, that future feels closer.
