The Cleveland Browns appear set to select an offensive player with the No. 6 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, though the exact position remains uncertain. While many expect the team to prioritize an offensive tackle, growing attention surrounds wide receiver Carnell Tate from Ohio State as a possible choice to strengthen the Browns’ receiving options alongside Deshaun Watson.
Despite Tate’s less impressive combine numbers, Browns insider Tony Grossi shared his perspective on Tate’s value during the Paw and Paulus podcast. He noted that the wide receiver’s athletic metrics did not diminish his standing as a viable option to complement other offensive weapons like Shedeur Sanders and Watson.
“Tate is interesting,” Grossi said after joining the show via phone call. “I don’t know what that number for him is considered good, bad, or expected. What was it, 4-5-3 or something? I don’t know how that affects his draft status, to be honest with you.” – Tony Grossi, Browns Insider
“I still think he’s the best receiver to consider up there. I think Tyson is a little enticing, also. But I would say those three receivers, Tyson, Tate, and Boston, to me are considerations for the Browns.” – Tony Grossi, Browns Insider
Carnell Tate Welcomes the Possibility of Joining Cleveland
At the NFL Combine, Tate expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of joining the Cleveland Browns, especially given his ties to Ohio. He appreciated the chance to stay close to Columbus and connect with local fans who support both Ohio State and Cleveland’s NFL team.
“It would mean a lot to stay next to Columbus,” Tate said Friday. “Then I could go out there and see all my guys at Ohio State. I know Ohio State fans love the Cleveland Browns, so why not?” – Carnell Tate, Wide Receiver
Mel Kiper Jr.’s Recommendation for the Browns’ Draft Strategy
ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has voiced strong support for the Browns selecting a wide receiver with their high draft pick. Contrary to the common expectation of picking an offensive tackle, Kiper insists that Ohio State’s Carnell Tate would be a valuable addition capable of making an immediate impact.
“He has the length, he has incredible velcro hands,” Kiper said. “He doesn’t drop any passes. He blocks. He’s unselfish. He’s a tremendous route-runner. He’s NFL-ready to come in as a rookie.” – Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN Draft Analyst
“To me, for this football team in Cleveland, Shedeur Sanders made a lot of really good throws; some were dropped, they didn’t catch the football. Also, weather, he’s dealt with that at Ohio State and Columbus.” – Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN Draft Analyst
The 2025 Cleveland Browns receiving corps struggled with dropped passes throughout the season, totaling 25, with Jerry Jeudy responsible for 10 of those drops, ranking second highest in the league. Kiper believes that bringing Tate onboard could bolster the Browns’ passing attack and reduce such errors.
Implications of Adding Tate to the Browns’ Receiving Group
Integrating Carnell Tate would provide the Browns with a wide receiver who combines length, reliable hands, and route-running precision, complementing established teammates like Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. The local connection between Tate and the Cleveland area may also resonate with fans, potentially adding enthusiasm around the draft pick.
As the Browns prepare for this critical selection, choosing Tate could signal a strategic move to address passing game inconsistencies from the previous season and enhance offensive versatility. The upcoming draft will reveal whether Cleveland prioritizes securing a strong receiver or opts to bolster its offensive line instead, a decision that will shape the team’s 2024 offensive identity.
“I still think he’s the best WR to consider up there,” – @TonyGrossi on Carnell Tate.
Would you draft Tate at no. 6 overall? pic.twitter.com/PHR2GVMJFW
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) March 1, 2026
