Predicting the New York Jets’ draft picks has always been a bit of a wild ride. Remember when they went for a first-round fullback in 1987 and a second-round kicker in 2005? Fast forward to 2026, and their choice at No. 2 seems clearer, with Ohio State's edge defender Arvell Reese widely expected to be the pick.
But hold on-NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah has thrown a curveball, suggesting the Jets might be eyeing another Buckeye for that spot: Carnell Tate.
As highlighted by Jets analyst Michael Nania, picking Tate at No. 2 would definitely be an unexpected move for Gang Green. Yet, when you dive into the numbers, Tate’s potential shines through.
Tate’s resume is impressive, hitting all the key metrics that often predict NFL success: yards per route, overall Pro Football Focus grade, contested-catch rate, and a low percentage of behind-the-line targets. Since 2018, only a select few receivers, like Ja’Marr Chase and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, have matched these benchmarks.
With wide receiver being one of the Jets’ biggest needs, Tate’s skills could be just what they’re looking for. Beyond Garrett Wilson, who’s been the only consistent performer with over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons, the rest of the receiver room is filled with uncertainties. Wilson, despite leading the team last year, only played seven games and logged 396 yards, highlighting the need for more reliable options.
Ranked No. 8 overall on the Mock Draft Database consensus big board, Tate is seen as a perfect complement to Wilson. His knack for stretching the field was evident last season, where on 17 targets of 20-plus yards, he snagged 11 receptions for 453 yards and six touchdowns. His big-play capability was further showcased with five of his nine scores coming from 40 yards or more.
Carnell Tate’s explosive potential makes him an intriguing fit for the Jets’ offense and a strong contender for the No. 2 pick.