Is Carnell Tate or Makai Lemon the better WR draft prospect?

The 2026 NFL Draft has multiple elite wide receivers, led by Ohio State’s Carnell Tate and USC’s Makai Lemon. 

Tate’s polish and size edge many rankings, while Lemon’s explosiveness and confidence make him the better receiver to some analysts. But who should really go first? 

Comparing Carnell Tate and Makai Lemon as draft prospects

Tate is 6-foot-3 and weighs 195 pounds. In 2025, Tate had 875 yards, 51 receptions and nine touchdowns. Some of Tate’s best strengths include his ability to catch practically anything and his body control. His weaknesses would be a small injury history and less breakaway speed. 

Meanwhile, Lemon is 5-foot-11 and also weighs 195 pounds. In 2025, Lemon had 79 receptions, 1,156 yards, 11 touchdowns and won the Biletnikoff Award. The strengths that Lemon possesses are his ability to explode and gain yards after catch, and he is very physical. His weaknesses are that he has a smaller frame and a higher drop rate (21.3%).  

Tate wins most boards for reliability and size; he is the perfect WR1 for teams needing contested catches. However, Lemon shines in separation and toughness. 

Most experts like Mel Kiper are picking Tate as the No. 1 WR. 

Tate will most likely end up going to a team like the New York Giants or Cleveland Browns, while Lemon will probably be picked by the New Orleans Saints or Kansas City Chiefs. 

NFL teams should draft Tate first because you can do more with him, and Tate will bring the ability to consistently catch contested targets. But Lemon is a close No. 2 who will most likely follow a couple of picks after Tate is taken off the board. Both will make an impact on whichever team they end up on.