Jaxon Smith-Njigba 2.0? Ohio State’s latest star wide receiver declares for the 2026 NFL Draft

Any time an Ohio State wideout declares for the draft, the NFL world sits up and takes notice. Such is the importance of what has become an annual tradition that fans and NFL teams alike wait with bated breath.

One look at his fellow alumni who came before him tells you why. The list includes Terry McLaurin, Michael Thomas, Garrett Wilson, Marvin Harrison Jr., Chris Olave, Emeka Egbuka, and the 2025 receiving yardage leader, Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

In 2025, the Buckeyes fielded at least two wide receivers who are destined to become household names. One of those players, Jeremiah Smith, isn't eligible until 2027. The other, after declaring yesterday, will be one of the first receivers to hear his name called in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Here, we delve into why that player will be highly sought after and the NFL teams rumoured to covet his talent.

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Carnell Tate was never the flashiest name in Ohio State’s loaded receiver room, but he became one of its most dependable, especially on third downs, a situation in which he became a trusted outlet for quarterback Julian Sayin last year.

He may lack the raw athleticism of some of the NFL's true speedsters, but the same was said of the Seahawks' Smith-Njigba, and we saw how that turned out. For those unaware, Smith-Njigba is the frontrunner to win the 2025 Offensive Player of the Year award.

Considering he's still only 20 years old, Tate's advanced feel for timing and spacing, combined with his knack for tracking the ball effortlessly, are rare qualities that should only improve with more coaching.

From an NFL standpoint, Tate has the skillset to suggest he is ready to contribute early - a point WR-needy teams near the top of the draft are well aware of.

The New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, or Los Angeles Rams could be in play at their picks. Similarly, the New York Giants, whom we predicted Tate would be picked by in our latest mock, would also make an excellent landing spot.

• Read next | 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Who will the Raiders pick first overall? Will the Chiefs strike gold at 9?

Pairing Tate with quarterback Jaxson Dart and wideout Malik Nabers in an aerial attack supported by Cam Skattebo on the ground would instantly provide Big Blue with a dynamic offense, with the potential to become one of the league's most potent.

But if the Giants are not to be Tate's destination, rest assured that wherever he ends up, he'll make an impact. If you're a college football fan, you'll know this already. If not, remember the name.