Other schools’ best tampering efforts ultimately didn’t convince Carnell Tate to enter the transfer portal.
Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate made it clear: no amount of recruiting pressure, NIL deals, or outside noise was going to pull him away from the Buckeyes. Despite relentless efforts from other programs trying to lure him away, Tate stood firm in his commitment to Ohio State, reinforcing his loyalty with an emphatic statement—“I bleed scarlet and gray.”
Tate, a former five-star recruit from IMG Academy in Florida, was one of the crown jewels of Ohio State’s 2023 recruiting class. He arrived in Columbus with high expectations and immediately showed flashes of his immense potential as a freshman. With precise route-running, strong hands, and elite athleticism, Tate made an impact early, even in a talented wide receiver room stacked with future NFL talent.
Given the current state of college football, where the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) money have reshaped player movement, it wasn’t surprising that other schools attempted to pry Tate away. Big-time programs saw his talent and knew he could be a game-changer. Reports indicated that several top-tier schools reached out, hoping to convince him to take his talents elsewhere. However, Tate never wavered.
“I was never leaving,” Tate said in an interview. “Other schools tried, but I’m locked in. This is home.”
His commitment isn’t just words—it’s backed up by action. Tate has continued to develop under the guidance of wide receivers coach Brian Hartline, widely regarded as the best in the country at developing NFL-caliber talent. Seeing what Ohio State has produced—NFL stars like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr.—Tate knows he’s in the perfect place to prepare for the next level.
Even as NIL deals have made it easier for players to consider jumping to the highest bidder, Tate’s decision speaks volumes about Ohio State’s culture and development system. The Buckeyes have remained a top destination for elite wide receivers, and Tate is determined to follow in the footsteps of his predecessors. His strong performance as a freshman only solidified his belief that Ohio State is the best place for him.
Fans have embraced his loyalty, showering him with support on social media and in person. In an era where players are often criticized for leaving programs quickly, Tate’s stance has made him even more popular in Columbus. His passion for the Buckeyes, combined with his work ethic, makes him a fan favorite and a key piece of Ohio State’s future.
With the 2025 season on the horizon, Tate is poised for a breakout year. He will be a crucial target for the Buckeyes’ offense as they aim for a Big Ten championship and a College Football Playoff berth. And as opposing teams try to keep up with Ohio State’s high-powered attack, they’ll have to contend with a receiver who isn’t just playing for himself—he’s playing for the university he calls home.
Carnell Tate’s message is clear: he’s here to stay, and he’s ready to make history in the scarlet and gray.
