It’s the rise of a new star, and the name is Carnell Tate. Trust me, you’ll be hearing this name a lot. Ah, but Tate’s journey of becoming the new rising star in the football league was not that smooth. However, underneath those game-day statistics and glittering moments there is an untold narrative. One that stretches from the sun fields of IMG Academy to the streets of Chicago.

The love for football that Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate has had since childhood is always intertwined with family. Tate’s late mother was more than just his number one supporter—she was Tate’s backbone, one who cheered him up during every catch and touchdown. Tragically, this bond was shattered in July 2023 when she was shot dead. The loss was a devastating blow to Tate, reshaping his life both on and off the field.

Ashley Griggs (40-year-old) lost her life in the early hours of July 16, 2023, during a drive-by shooting in Chicago’s West Garfield Park neighborhood. She was among people who were out to attend a high school reunion when gunfire erupted from a passing car. Three of them were wounded, and the other one was critically harmed, but the true tragedy was Griggs – a mother and a beloved community figure.

Police reports detailed the harrowing scene, with multiple people hurt being taken right away to local hospitals. But for Tate, this tragedy turned out to be the point of personal grief that changed his life path.

Carnell Tate’s rise to prominence as a football player has been marked by hard work and determination. He began his high school football at the Marist High School in Chicago, although his talent improved after joining IMG Academy in Florida. All his hard work materialized when he pledged to join Ohio State. He was enrolled in early January 2023 and attended practice in the spring.

Tate stands out as one of the few freshmen who has skills and a never-give-up attitude in the game. Playing behind veteran stars like Emeka Egbuka and young talent like Jeremiah Smith, he was making great plays and earned recognition as a young talent who will help the Buckeyes’ offense. However, before all that happened, one moment changed everything for the Buckeyes‘ player. 

The death of Ashley Griggs left an indelible mark on Tate’s life. Ohio State coach Ryan Day said much about this, stating that Tate had a tough time, and was quiet and mournful. “They were very good friends,” Day said. ‘We are saying that every time you lose someone like that, it leaves the floor from under your feet.’

Football became the source of comfort while at the same time – the constant reminder of his loss. Even on the field, one could see that Tate possesses not just talent but also a deep resolve. During the game against Northwestern, Tate scored two phenomenal touchdowns.  “It was about playing in front of my family,” Tate said, although he could not fully fathom the pressure put on him.

Carnell Tate’s story of coping and moving forward

Ashley Griggs has left behind her loved ones, the family and friends who knew her, and the entire community. Tate said he got help during his times of desperation after losing his mother. The young man simply posted a message on the social networking sites: ‘Thank you all the guys.”

For Tate, honoring his mother has extended beyond public tributes. With each game, each touchdown is a silent tribute to her belief in him.

Despite the sorrow, Tate’s story is one of resilience. His action on the field this season is an example of strength; he also has the strength of the heart. Tate’s comeback from a toe injury that costs him games and still has a total of 601 receiving yards and contributes much to Buckeyes’ victories.

Players, as well as coaches, have not hesitated to express their appreciation for him. Quarterback Will Howard said: “I like Tate as one of my favorite guys on the team.” In WR Emuka Egbuka’s reckoning: “Whether it is classified as number one or depth-chart, he is my No. 1 receiver.”

It is indeed an interesting prospect to look at the future of Tate’s trajectory. As much as he will never get over losing his mother, he is a symbol of hope and determination. Every move Tate makes is a homage to Ashley Griggs and a striving for what got lost together with the dreams.