Entering the 2024 season, Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was already seen as a rising star, but his impressive freshman campaign left no doubt about his immense talent.
Now, he has successfully secured the top position on On3 senior writer Ari Wasserman’s list of returning college football players. The writer even claims the Buckeyes pass catcher could be the next potential face of receivers in college football.
Jeremiah Smith Emerges as the Most Promising Player With a Record-Breaking Freshman Year
Expectations were already high for Smith heading into his first season with the Buckeyes, but he managed to exceed even the loftiest projections. The young wideout finished the year with 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, averaging a staggering 17.3 yards per catch.
His playmaking ability was on full display, with highlight-reel catches and game-changing performances, including a crucial 56-yard grab that all but sealed the national championship victory against Notre Dame.
MORE: ‘Need To Check His Birth Certificate’ – NFL Legend Raves About Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith
Seeing his outstanding form and potential, Wasserman placed him in the top position on his “Top 10 Returning College Football Players” list.
Smith’s stellar season has already propelled him into the Heisman conversation for 2025. According to On3, analysts have already picked him as a favorite for the prestigious award. With his combination of size, speed, and football IQ, he has the tools to become the potential first-overall pick in the NFL Draft when he becomes eligible.
The challenge for Smith now is maintaining and even improving his performance in the face of these growing expectations. With a new quarterback likely taking the reins for Ohio State, Smith will need to adapt quickly and continue to be the focal point of the offense. If he does, another monster season could cement his place as one of the best receivers in Buckeye history.
Massive $4.5 Million Deal Offered to Jeremiah Smith to Leave Ohio State
With stardom comes attention, and Smith has certainly attracted plenty. In the offseason, the wide receiver was reportedly offered massive NIL deals ranging from $4.5 million to $5 million to transfer to other programs. While the specific schools were not named, speculation suggests Miami, a program with deep ties to Smith’s South Florida roots.
Despite the financial incentives, Smith chose to remain at Ohio State. However, the Buckeyes are not taking any chances.
RELATED: Ohio State Faces Transfer Portal Battle: Jeremiah Smith Offered $4.5M+, Carnell Tate $1M+ To Leave
Reports indicate they are prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure he stays in Columbus, especially given the departure of key offensive players like quarterback Will Howard and running back Quinshon Judkins.
With a national title under his belt now, Heisman predictions on the horizon, and the backing of a powerhouse program, Smith is well-positioned to take over as the next superstar receiver in college football.
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