New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough has drawn interest from Carnell Tate, one of the top receiver prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, due to his elite play last season, and the feeling is mutual. We finally got a chance to hear Shough's thoughts on Tate during an interview with Indianapolis Colts receiver Josh Downs and Ohio State safety Caleb Downs on their “Downs 2 Business” podcast.
Tate has been clear about his desire to land in New Orleans, and now Shough has replicated this feeling. He would be a fantastic addition to the Saints offense and be an outstanding complement to Chris Olave.
Tate has stated his interest in playing in the black and gold, and more specifically with Shough, multiple times. Downs brought this up on the podcast. "He (Tate) mentioned the Saints,” Downs said. “So credit to you (Tyler Shough). He said he wants to play with you”.
Obviously, Carnell Tate wants to go to the Saints... and so does Tyler Shough
After Downs said this, he asked Shough his thoughts on bringing another former Buckeye to the offense. Shough got straight to the point. “You can’t go wrong with Ohio State," the quarterback said. The Buckeyes' track record plus a season of throwing to Chris Olave probably influenced the decision.
Shough continued with praise for Tate. "I think he’s (Tate) one of, if not the, best receivers in the draft. What he’s been able to do, especially at that age, I think he’s only going to continue to get better,” Shough said. “I think he’d be a good get.”
Shough is absolutely right. Tate would be an amazing addition to the Saints and would be a perfect pairing with Olave. The 6-foot-2, 192 pound receiver is a well-rounded player who combines amazing athleticism with a superb contested catch ability. He has outstanding hands, recording zero drops in 2025, and can highpoint a ball over the defender. He complements Olave well and gives Shough a reliable target when he’s under duress.
Overall, the interest of Carnell Tate to the Saints is evident on both sides. He’s an enticing option at pick eight and would elevate their offense. If he’s on the board, Mickey Loomis will have a tough time passing on the former Buckeye.