Jeremiah Smith may have to wait a couple more years before he can officially step onto an NFL field. Still, if his freshman season at Ohio State was any indication, he’s already playing at a level that screams professional stardom. The young wide receiver made history by setting a new true freshman receiving record. He amassed an impressive 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Jeremiah Smith’s NFL-Worthy Talent Puts Draft Experts on Notice
Coach Ryan Day, who has seen his fair share of elite talent come through Columbus, had nothing but praise for Smith.
“The award honors the guy with a unique talent and the discipline to cultivate and hone that talent consistently,” Day remarked.
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While Smith still has time before he can officially declare for the NFL Draft, the excitement around his potential landing spot is already off the charts. Given his dominance as a freshman, it is no surprise that NFL teams are eagerly awaiting their shot at securing his talents.
Early projections have placed him as a likely top pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, with many analysts expecting him to go as high as No. 2 overall. Draft Countdown initially predicted that Smith would be taken second, just behind Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin. However, some experts believe that Smith’s could rise even higher.
On March 29, CBSSports’’ Ryan Wilson revealed a major revelation that elevated the draft conversation. During an episode discussing mock drafts and prospects, Wilson was asked where he would land if eligible for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
Wilson simply raised his index finger without hesitation, signaling” number one.”
He later elaborated on his stance: “I asked some folks in the league about who be the first wide receiver in this draft class if Jeremiah Smith were available’’ and the answer was Jeremiah Smith”
W Wilson’s statement is a massive endorsement of Smith’s ability for those unfamiliar with the draft landscapes. The 2025 class already includes elite prospects; Colorado’ss Travis Hunter is widely regarded as the top receiver.
Hunter, known for his two-way playmaking skills, has been in constant discussions regarding the No. 1 overall pick. Miami quarterback Cam Ward is also a strong contender for the top spot, given the NNFL’s prioritization of quarterbacks in the draft. However, according to Wilson, if Smith were eligible in 2025, even Hunter would not be in his way.
“I said what about Travis Hunter [the likely top WR in this year’s draft],’’ and the answer remained Jeremiah Smith,” Wilson revealed.
Can Smith Handle the Pressure in Year Two?
While the comparisons to top-tier talent and early draft projections are exciting, Smith still has plenty to prove in his sophomore season. The transition from a standout freshman to a dominant second-year player comes with its own set of challenges. Smith will be expected to perform even more despite facing greater defensive attention.
Speaking on the “Ruffino Show,” he highlighted the primary concern facing Smith and the Ohio State offense in 2025.
“Jeremiah Smith was the number one option last year, but it did not need to be. Because they had TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, they had Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate, from whom they got production. This upcoming year, you have a new quarterback and are much more depleted with options.”
This means that, unlike last season, when Ohio State had a loaded roster with multiple playmakers, Smith may have to carry an even heavier burden. Several key offensive stars, including Jack Sawyer, JT Tuimoloau, and Denzel Burke, are no longer in the mix. The Buckeyes will need his production more than ever, and opposing defenses will undoubtedly take note, likely doubling their efforts to contain him.
Smith’s talent is undeniable, and if he continues on this trajectory, the conversations about him being the best receiver in any draft class will only get louder. For now, all eyes are on how he handles the pressure of his sophomore season.
KEEP READING: Top Returning Players to the Big Ten in 2025: Caleb Downs, Jeremiah Smith Headline
If he delivers as expected, the NFL world will be waiting with open arms, eager to see him take his place among the game’s Superstars.
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