Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has already made a significant impact on college football after just one season with the Buckeyes.
The freshman sensation helped secure Ohio State’s national championship with a crucial play in their 34-23 victory over Notre Dame. The game-sealing touchdown came on a play that head coach Ryan Day and the team developed during a team meeting before the game.
Smith’s performance earned him recognition from NBA star LeBron James.
NFL draft expert Mel Kiper has already projected Smith as a potential No. 1 overall selection when he becomes eligible in 2027.
Former Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts discussed Smith during media availability at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this past week. Watts, who Sporting News analyst Vinnie Iyer projects as the 45th overall pick to the Indianapolis Colts, faced Smith in the championship game.
“He’s a very talented player… the way he’s physically built, he’s a freak athlete,” Watts told reporters during a media scrum on Thursday, according to Eleven Warriors.
The freshman wideout helped Day secure his first national championship since taking over as head coach in 2019.
Smith’s trajectory points toward potential stardom if he continues his development. His recognition from opponents like Watts indicates his growing reputation across college football.
The challenge for Smith now is maintaining focus while building on his impressive freshman campaign that included 15 touchdown receptions.
