Carnell Tate, the talented wide receiver who shone for the Ohio State Buckeyes and later entered the NFL, has often shared how his late mother shaped his life and career. Ashley Griggs wasn’t just a parent—she was his best friend, biggest supporter, and guiding light. Her tragic passing in 2023 left a deep void, yet her memory fuels Tate’s drive on and off the field. This is the inspiring yet poignant story of a mother’s love and a son’s resilience.
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Who Was Ashley Griggs?
Ashley Griggs was a devoted mother from Chicago’s West Side, raising her son Carnell in a challenging environment marked by violence and hardship. At just 40 years old (some reports note 41 at the time), she worked tirelessly to shield her children from negative influences. Friends and family described her as warm, protective, and deeply connected to her kids.
She had two children, including Carnell, and poured her energy into giving them better opportunities. Despite the tough neighborhood, Ashley kept Carnell focused on sports and education. She celebrated his successes, offered advice during tough times, and created a safe space where he could talk about anything—from dreams to fears. Many who knew her called her the heart of the family, someone who balanced strength with incredible tenderness.
The Tragic Loss That Shook Carnell Tate
In July 2023, tragedy struck when Ashley Griggs was killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago’s West Garfield Park neighborhood. It happened around 2:25 a.m. on West Washington Boulevard as a vehicle opened fire on a crowd leaving an event. Ashley, an innocent bystander, was one of several shot; she sadly passed away from her injuries.
The news devastated the Ohio State football community. Tate, then a freshman, learned of the loss and later described feeling like his world had ended. “My mom was everything to me,” he shared in emotional interviews. “She was like my best friend, mom, and everything all in one.” Ohio State coaches and teammates rallied around him, offering support during one of the darkest periods of his life. The incident led to arrests, with multiple individuals charged in connection to the shooting.
Carnell Tate’s Journey: Honoring His Mother Through Football
Born on January 19, 2005, in Chicago, Carnell Tate attended Marist High School before transferring to the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida. As a five-star recruit, he joined Ohio State in 2023 and quickly made an impact with his speed, hands, and route-running. Despite the grief, he found purpose on the field.
Tate developed a signature “blowing a kiss” celebration after touchdowns—a quiet tribute to his mom, letting her know he’s still performing for her. He has spoken openly about how Ashley always encouraged him to chase dreams. “She always wanted me to chase my dreams, and I’m doing exactly that,” he reflected. His resilience turned pain into motivation, helping the Buckeyes in key games and earning national attention. Tate later transitioned to the NFL, carrying her spirit forward.
Here’s a quick overview of key details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mother’s Name | Ashley Griggs |
| Date of Passing | July 2023 (drive-by shooting in Chicago) |
| Carnell Tate’s Birth | January 19, 2005, Chicago, IL |
| High School | Marist HS → IMG Academy |
| College | Ohio State Buckeyes |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| Tribute Style | Blowing a kiss celebration after scores |
| Family Role | Single mom who raised Carnell in tough area |
How Ashley’s Legacy Lives On
- Emotional Support: Ashley was Tate’s confidante; he could cry, laugh, or seek advice without judgment.
- Career Influence: She pushed him toward football excellence while prioritizing safety and education.
- Community Impact: Her story highlights urban challenges and the strength of single parents.
- Ongoing Inspiration: Tate uses his platform to honor her, showing fans that love transcends loss.
Bullets like these remind us how one person’s influence can ripple through generations.
Conclusion
Ashley Griggs may no longer be physically present, but her love continues to guide Carnell Tate every step of the way. From Chicago’s tough streets to the bright lights of college and professional football, her son’s journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of a mother’s bond. Tate plays not just for himself, but for the woman who was his everything. Her story touches hearts, reminding us to cherish our loved ones and turn grief into greatness.
In a world full of distractions, stories like this ground us in what truly matters—family, perseverance, and unconditional love. Carnell Tate’s tribute to his mom Ashley Griggs proves that even in loss, light can shine through.
Updated: April 24, 2026