Carnell Tate Eyes Tyler Shough, Praises Saints QB’s Rookie Rise
Carnell Tate is one of the most coveted wide receiver prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. A polished route-runner with elite ball skills and a knack for finding soft spots in coverage, he’s the kind of player who can elevate an offense from good to dangerous. But what’s interesting isn’t just where Tate might land - it’s who he wants throwing him the football.
On a recent episode of the Downs 2 Business podcast, the Ohio State standout name-dropped two quarterbacks he’d love to catch passes from: Josh Allen and Tyler Shough. And while Allen’s résumé speaks for itself, it was Shough - the New Orleans Saints’ rookie QB - who got the most intriguing endorsement.
“I just want to go somewhere that’s targeting me,” Tate said. “Like that’s all I could ask for, like the [Jaxon Smith-Njigba] targets he just got, Puka Nakua targets… where I go don’t really matter, it’s about the ball.
You know, as a receiver I’d love to go play with Josh Allen. He can get you the ball.
He’s experienced. I feel like the Saints with Tyler.
Tyler’s been balling.”
That’s not just a casual shoutout. That’s a top-10 prospect recognizing a young quarterback who’s already turning heads - and not just in New Orleans.
Shough’s Rookie Year Turns Heads
Tyler Shough’s rookie campaign wasn’t just solid - it was a statement. Drafted in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Shough entered the league with question marks surrounding his consistency and ceiling.
Some scouts were skeptical, suggesting the Saints should’ve opted for more decorated college QBs like Shedeur Sanders or Quinn Ewers. But New Orleans stuck to its evaluation, and so far, it’s paying off.
Shough showed poise, arm talent, and command of the offense - the kind of traits that are hard to teach. He made the most of his opportunities behind a much-improved offensive line, thanks in part to fellow 2025 draftee Kelvin Banks Jr. anchoring the left tackle spot. With those two foundational pieces in place, the Saints are building something real on offense.
And now, prospects are taking notice.
Tate’s Interest Speaks Volumes
Tate’s comments reflect more than just a passing interest - they’re an acknowledgment of what Shough is becoming: a quarterback who can attract top-tier talent. That matters, especially for a team like the Saints, who are coming off a 6-11 season and looking to turn the corner in 2026.
Whether Tate’s interest in Shough comes from watching tape, hearing from his former Buckeye teammate Chris Olave, or just seeing the highlights, one thing is clear - the respect is there. And that’s not something rookies earn easily, especially at quarterback.
A Potential Draft-Day Match?
Of the two quarterbacks Tate mentioned, Shough and the Saints are the more plausible pairing. Buffalo is likely drafting later, and if Tate’s stock holds, he may be off the board by the time the Bills are on the clock. New Orleans, on the other hand, sits in a prime position to make a move - either by standing pat or trading up slightly - to grab a playmaker who already sees their QB as a fit.
For a team that’s already addressed quarterback and left tackle, adding a weapon like Tate could be the next step in building a dynamic offense. And for Tate, the opportunity to grow alongside a young, ascending quarterback like Shough might be exactly what he’s looking for.
The Bottom Line
Tyler Shough entered the NFL with doubters. He’s exiting Year 1 with believers - and not just in the Saints’ front office.
When top prospects like Carnell Tate are openly expressing interest in playing with you, that says something. It says the league is watching.
It says the narrative is shifting.
And for New Orleans, it says the rebuild might be further along than anyone thought.