Is Carnell Tate still WR1? Despite a polarizing 4.53 official 40-yard dash, the Ohio State star might have actually solidified his status as the only "true" WR1 in Cleveland’s sights.
On a recent episode of The SICK Podcast with Andy McNamara, NFL Draft analyst John Vogel didn't mince words about the gap between Tate and the rest of the class. "Carnell Tate is the only wide receiver in this draft that I think you can definitively say is a WR1," Vogel noted. While others flashed pure speed, Vogel argues that Tate’s "play strength, route savvy, and separation burst" make him the complete package that translates to immediate Sunday production.
More:Browns post-Combine 2026 mock draft delivers a stunner at No. 6 from NFL insider
If the Browns decide to address another need at No. 6, the drop-off to the "secondary" types is notable, but there is still excellent depth for secondary contributors. Here is how the next tier shakes out:
1. Ja'Kobi Lane (USC):
My official 2026 “Combine crush”. A red-zone nightmare with a 40-inch vertical and a speedy 4.47-second 40-yard dash at 6'4". Lane showcased his natural hands, running through the catch and impressive burst in the gauntlet drills as well. I would grab the Trojan alum in Round 2 if Andrew Berry decides not to take a receiver in the opening round.
The Knock: He struggles against physical press coverage and jamming at the line.
2. Denzel Boston (Washington):
Boasts elite ball skills and a massive catch radius after posting 20 career touchdowns. Would give Cleveland that big bodied “X” receiver at 6’4” and 212-lbs.
The Knock: He lacks a true second gear and often loses his initial separation as the route progresses. Looked slow and had drops in Combine drills. Boston’s disappointing 35” vertical was five inches less than Ja’Kobi Lane.
3. Elijah Sarratt (Indiana):
A physical perimeter threat who hauled in 11 contested targets and dominated man coverage with 15-TDs in the Hoosiers National Championship run.
The Knock: His route running lacks nuance, often rounding off breaks rather than snapping them.
4. Malachai Fields (Notre Dame):
An "X" receiver with a 38-inch vertical who bullies defensive backs at the catch point.
The Knock: A sluggish 4.61-second 40-yard dash confirms he is a build-up runner rather than a deep threat.
5. Omar Cooper Jr. (Indiana):
The fastest of the bunch with a 4.42 40-yard dash and an impressive 1.55-second 10-yard split. Cooper can win in traffic, and owns pull away speed for major yards after the catch contributions.
The Knock: At just 6'0", his shorter arms (30 1/4") limit his effectiveness on off-target throws.
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