Ohio State WR Carnell Tate's 40-Yard Dash Time Disputed at NFL Combine

Tate's official time ranked 27th among wide receiver prospects, but teams recorded him faster

Mar. 2, 2026 at 10:23pm

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Carnell Tate's 40-yard dash time at the NFL combine is under dispute after the Ohio State wide receiver was officially clocked at 4.53 seconds, which ranked 27th among the 34 participating wide receiver prospects. However, at least two teams had Tate recorded with a faster time in the 4.45-second range, according to sources. The discrepancy could be attributed to the equipment used for the laser timing, as some teams logged times differing from the official mark for other prospects as well.

Why it matters

Tate's 40-yard dash time is an important metric for NFL teams evaluating wide receiver prospects, as it provides insight into a player's speed and athleticism. The dispute over Tate's time could impact his draft stock, as teams may rely more heavily on their own measurements from his upcoming Pro Day to verify his speed.

The details

Tate averaged 17.2 yards per reception last season with the Buckeyes, catching 51 passes for 875 yards and nine touchdowns. His draft stock most likely remains unchanged, as a faster time would confirm what scouts have seen on the field. Overall, prospects recorded blazing times in the 40-yard dash at this year's combine, with several position group records set.

  • Tate's 40-yard dash time was recorded on Saturday, March 1, 2026 at the NFL combine in Indianapolis.

The players

Carnell Tate

An Ohio State wide receiver prospect participating in the 2026 NFL combine.

Jordyn Tyson

One of the top five wide receivers in The Athletic's pre-combine rankings who did not participate in the 40-yard dash at the combine.

Makai Lemon

One of the top five wide receivers in The Athletic's pre-combine rankings who did not participate in the 40-yard dash at the combine.

KC Concepcion

One of the top five wide receivers in The Athletic's pre-combine rankings who did not participate in the 40-yard dash at the combine.

Denzel Boston

One of the top five wide receivers in The Athletic's pre-combine rankings who did not participate in the 40-yard dash at the combine.

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What’s next

Tate will have the opportunity to run the 40-yard dash again at Ohio State's Pro Day, where teams will be able to independently verify his speed.

The takeaway

The dispute over Carnell Tate's 40-yard dash time at the NFL combine highlights the importance of speed and athleticism for wide receiver prospects, and the need for teams to thoroughly evaluate all available data points to make informed draft decisions.