Carnell Tate’s journey began far from the gridiron glamour he’s thrust into now. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, he realized early on that life wasn’t going to be easy. In a neighborhood where violence and drug abuse were whispers of everyday life, he found resilience within himself, largely thanks to his mother, Ashley Griggs. That strong foundation, however, was shattered in July 2023 when she was taken from him in a senseless act of gun violence. In a poignant nod to her, Carnell’s celebration—a simple blowing of a kiss—speaks volumes about his deep connection to her memory amidst the highs and lows of college football.

After a promising high school career split between Marist High School and IMG Academy, Tate emerged as a five-star recruit, turning heads with his skillset and potential. His commitment to Ohio State was a step up, entering a crowded wide receiver roster as a freshman in 2023. Despite the competition, he carved out his space, scoring his first collegiate touchdown and showing strides as a reliable playmaker. By his sophomore year, he truly flourished, leading in receptions and touchdowns, culminating in a memorable performance at Wrigley Field, with two touchdowns in front of friends and family.

With ambitions not only in athletics but also in academics—majored in sports industry and earning multiple scholar-athlete honors—Tate’s story is as much about pushing through personal losses as it is about chasing football dreams. And just when the world thought it had begun to know his name, he declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, setting the stage for what comes next. As the narrative unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what his mother would think, standing as a proud witness to her son’s tenacity.