The Pittsburgh Steelers are diligently working to strengthen their roster during the offseason, with significant efforts focused on the 2026 NFL Draft Combine. The team is particularly keen on identifying promising wide receiver talent, and Ohio State Buckeyes standout Carnell Tate has emerged as a leading candidate. His previous collaboration with Steelers' quarterback Will Howard adds an intriguing dimension to this potential recruitment.
Top Draft Prospect Carnell Tate Expresses Eagerness to Rejoin Quarterback Will Howard in Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively evaluating prospects at the ongoing 2026 NFL Draft Combine, with a specific focus on enhancing their wide receiver depth. Among the standout talents, Carnell Tate, a remarkable wide receiver from the Ohio State Buckeyes, has garnered significant attention from the Steelers. Tate's impressive 2025 season saw him accumulate 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns across 11 games, solidifying his position as a top-tier wide receiver in his draft class. A compelling factor in the Steelers' interest is Tate's prior experience playing alongside current Steelers quarterback Will Howard during the 2024 season. During a combine interview, Tate enthusiastically expressed his desire to reunite with Howard in Pittsburgh, stating, "Will's my guy. All me and Will do is joke around with each other. We call each other, make fun of each other. It's a great relationship with Will. I miss him … It would be great to catch passes with Will. I've done it before." While acquiring Tate would likely necessitate a substantial trade-up in the draft, and Howard's starting position next season is not guaranteed, the potential for this reunion remains an exciting prospect for the Steelers, especially given the dynamic nature of quarterback plans in the upcoming offseason.
This development underscores the importance of established player relationships in the professional sports landscape. The mutual respect and past on-field success between Carnell Tate and Will Howard highlight how personal connections can influence draft strategies and team building. For the Steelers, securing a talent like Tate, who already possesses chemistry with a team quarterback, could provide a significant advantage in accelerating offensive integration and performance. It serves as a reminder that beyond raw talent, the human element of camaraderie and familiarity plays a crucial role in shaping a team's future success.