In the world of NFL scouting, speed can often overshadow other critical skills, but as we've seen with some of the league's top receivers, a blazing 40-yard dash isn't everything. Take Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Puka Nacua, for instance.
Despite clocking in at over 4.5 seconds in their 40-yard dashes, they dominated the NFL last season. Smith-Njigba, with an astounding 119 receptions for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns, clinched the AP Offensive Player of the Year and lifted the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory.
Nacua wasn't far behind, tallying 129 receptions for 1,713 yards and matching those 10 touchdowns with the Rams.
Enter Carnell Tate, whose 4.53-second dash time at Ohio State’s pro day should hardly be a concern. His performance there was a showcase of what makes him special-fluid athleticism and elite route-running that had scouts from all 32 NFL teams taking notice.
Tate himself put it best: “A couple of the great NFL receivers right now, like Puka and Jaxon, they ain't run the fastest of times, but they're the two best receivers in the league right now.”
Ohio State's head coach, Ryan Day, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Tate's readiness for the NFL. “He's got himself in great shape and how fast he's moving. He’s smooth, he’s physical, and he’s gonna be a guy that certainly can have an impact day one walking into a team.”
Despite missing a few games due to injury, Tate still managed to rack up 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns last season. His ability to create separation and his knack for making tough catches look easy have solidified his status as one of the top receiver prospects in the upcoming draft.
Day was impressed with Tate's pro day performance, noting his strength and precision. “He looked long and powerful and just eating up ground. Looked sharp catching the ball, just having a crisp day.”
Tate’s complete package as a receiver-strong hands, excellent route-running, and a willingness to block-makes him a top contender for the first wide receiver spot in the draft. Teams aren't worried about his speed, and they shouldn't be.
“I think I checked all the boxes in my film,” Tate confidently stated. “Getting open, running past defenders. Also, I'm a willing blocker.”
Tate is part of a talented Ohio State draft class, alongside potential first-rounders like safety Caleb Downs and linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles. Defensive tackle Kayden McDonald might also join them in the first round.
Reflecting on his journey, Tate expressed his excitement for the draft in Pittsburgh, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity. As he leaves Ohio State, he hopes to be remembered not just for his on-field prowess but for his character off the field as well.
“That I was a great player,” Tate said. “Also, just how great of a player I was off the field. That speaks for your character, who you are as a person.”
As draft day approaches, Tate's combination of skill, character, and determination make him a standout prospect ready to make his mark in the NFL.