Originally from Chicago, Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate transferred to IMG Academy in Florida for his final two seasons of high school football. 247Sports recognized him as a five-star recruit and the No. 22 overall prospect after registering 20.3 yards per reception as a senior.
As a freshman at Ohio State, he logged 18 receptions; modest production, but more than Chris Olave, Marvin Harrison Jr., Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Emeka Egbuka managed in their respective freshman campaigns. The Buckeyes are the active title holder of WR U. In addition to the aforementioned names, the program has also produced Garrett Wilson and Terry McLaurin. In fact, Ohio State has had a wide receiver drafted in the first round each of the past four years.
Tate has elevated his game from fringe first-round selection to potentially first off the board at his position. He quickly emerged as a reliable target for quarterback Julian Sayin as the Buckeyes' bid to repeat as national champions marches onward. In addition to his work on the football field, the Illinois native has been recognized by the school and conference for his efforts in the classroom.
Here's more on his background -- including his strengths and weaknesses as an NFL prospect, pro comparison and more:
The Pickens comparison is almost more of a placeholder right now, because it is not perfect. Pickens is more creative with the ball in his hands, but the two have similar body structures. Tate is a better route runner than Pickens had been coming out of Georgia. Each is primarily used on the boundary rather than the slot.