Carnell Tate, the sophomore wide receiver making waves with the Ohio State Buckeyes, is having a standout season. His journey began in Chicago, where he grew up and attended Marist High School. From a young age, Tate showcased a fearless approach on the field, catching the attention of his parents, Ashley Griggs and Sean Tate, who encouraged him to pursue football seriously.
Tate's talent took him to IMG Academy, where he honed his skills and quickly rose to prominence as one of the top high school players. In 2022, he racked up 750 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in just eight games, earning national recognition.
By January 2023, Ohio State had signed him, offering him a platform to further develop his game. Throughout his journey, his parents were his biggest supporters, with his mother’s memory continuing to inspire him after her tragic passing.
Ashley Griggs was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago’s Garfield Park neighborhood on July 16, 2023. The Ohio State community rallied around Tate, offering heartfelt condolences and unwavering support during this challenging period. Despite the personal tragedy, Tate has channeled his grief into performance on the field, continuing to excel and build his burgeoning career.
Seen as a potential future NFL star, Tate is projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 draft, with some analysts even suggesting he could go in the top five. In the 2025 season, he recorded 51 catches for 875 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging an impressive 17.2 yards per catch. Over his college career, he has amassed 121 receptions for 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt speculates that the New York Giants might be a perfect fit for Tate, especially alongside quarterback Jaxson Dart. Tate's ability to make tough downfield catches aligns well with Dart’s aggressive play style. While some might lean towards USC’s Makai Lemon, Klatt argues that Tate’s skill set is a better match for the Giants.
With his talent, confidence, and ability to handle pressure, Carnell Tate is not just ready for the next level; he’s poised to make a significant impact. Off the field, he enjoys playing video games and remains close to his family, including his siblings Re’asia, Re’niyah, and Akayla, and his father, Sean, who continues to guide him.