Carnell Tate names preferred landing spots as NFL GM teases WR's 'slow' 40 time

Ohio State's Carnell Tate's 4.53-second time in the 40-yard dash ranked 27th among the 34 wide receivers at the NFL Combine, raising eyebrows among some observers.

NFL draft analyst Chad Reuter described Tate's mark as "average, at best, for a 192-pound receiver," before questioning Tate's long speed in field drills.

Other outlets are circulating comments from Brandon Beane, general manager of the WR-needy Buffalo Bills, framing them as further criticism of Tate's performance.

Game Pass subscribers watching Tate perform live on DAZN know better.

Beane’s statement was clearly a light-hearted attempt to dissuade other teams from securing the services of the talented wideout, drawing laughter and jokes from others in the booth.

Granted, Tate's time wasn’t mindblowing, but as a savvy route runner with elite body control and a polished skill set, he remains one of the most talented wideouts in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Which team ultimately lands Tate will be the subject of intense debate between now and April 26.

Draft prospects have very little influence in determining which teams draft them, but that didn't stop Tate from describing his preferred destinations.

His comments may be music to the ears not only of Beane's Bills but also all three of the other teams Tate mentioned.

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Other players and storylines to follow

More details on the players turning heads at the Combine and the storylines dominating the headlines can be found here.

Prospect highlights for the likes of Fernando Mendoza, Kayden McDonald, Makai Lemon, and more can be found here for Game Pass subscribers.

Other offseason dates

A complete list of other offseason events and dates can be found here.