Despite Ohio State having deep ties with Nike, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who turned heads with an All-American freshman season in 2024, signed an NIL deal with Adidas. This development has left many scratching their heads, including one former NFL wide receiver.
Former Dallas Cowboys legend Dez Bryant didn’t hold himself back from calling out Ohio State’s 15‑year, $252 million deal with Nike after learning that the biggest star of the program will represent rival brand.
“Nike about to lose all credibility How did they lose Jeremiah Smith to adidas?” Bryant wrote on X.
Nike about to lose all credibility How did they lose Jeremiah Smith to adidas?
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) July 2, 2025
Bryant sees this move from Adidas a big step towards making a mark in college football, where Nike holds a lion’s share.
“Adidas coming for the #1 spot,” Bryant further tweeted.
Adidas coming for the #1 spot https://t.co/2EoXPdUyWp
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) July 2, 2025
Smith is one of the best receivers in all of college football. Last season, he led Ohio State with 1,315 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns before helping them win the national championship.
Why Did Jeremiah Smith Pick Adidas Over Nike?
Jeremiah Smith’s decision to go with Adidas over Nike was more of a personal decision. This is the brand that he has worn since age 10 and will likely continue to do so until he hangs up his boots for good.
“I’ve been wearing Adidas since I was a young kid, 11, 10 years old,” Smith said.
After his partnership with Adidas was announced, Smith said:
“One of the most memorable moments from last season was losing my black stripe and officially becoming a Buckeye. Fast forward a year and I’m blessed to be adding three, joining the fastest brand in football. It’s crazy to be partnering with a brand that has such a talented roster of players and that I’ve been wearing since I was a young kid. We’re not done yet.”
This will be something Nike won’t take kindly to. When the brand signed the deal with Ohio State in 2018, they expected the program to have its best talent represent their brand. But with the exit, it will be considered a failure of the partnership.
As for Adidas, the apparel giant has been increasing their footfall in the football market. They have courted rising stars like Patrick Mahomes, Trevor Lawrence and more from under the nose of Nike.
Meanwhile, critics have also pointed out why Nike is losing its dominance due to several reasons, including supply shortages, slower innovation and a stagnant appeal in football gear.
It remains to be seen if Nike can put a stop to the growing market of Adidas in college football and the NFL.
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