Jeremiah Smith has emerged as one of the most captivating stars in college football during his first season with the Ohio State Buckeyes. His performance on the field has broken records and drawn attention, establishing him among the elite of collegiate athletes.
Smith, who has become the top-earning player on the Ohio State roster, boasts a remarkable NIL valuation of $3.7 million according to On3. His earnings place him at the #10 spot on the NIL 100 Rankings, and #8 among college football players. With 454,000 followers across social platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), he appeals to top-tier brands eager to collaborate with him.
Among his endorsement deals, Smith made headlines recently as the first-ever college football athlete to partner with Red Bull, signed back in September 2024. His impressive portfolio also features relationships with gaming giants Nintendo and Epic Games, targeting the younger demographic effectively. With fashion-forward brands like Lululemon and American Eagle Outfitters also on board, Smith has become both a sports icon and relatable public figure.
While his financial successes are noteworthy, Smith’s performance on the field has been even more astonishing. With 71 receptions for 1,227 yards and 14 touchdowns, he has set freshman records comparable to legends like Cris Carter. His contribution to the team was evident during the College Football Playoff where he amassed 290 yards and four touchdowns across pivotal games against Tennessee and Oregon.
Heading to the National Championship against Notre Dame, Smith’s talent is eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike. He scored his 15th touchdown during the game, moving him to second place on Ohio State’s single-season touchdown list. This impressive feat surpassed former star Marvin Harrison Jr., and falls just behind Terry Glenn, who held the record since 1995.
Yet, approaching the title game, concerns arose as Smith was seen having his left hamstring taped during warmups. Although there were no initial indications of injury, speculations loomed over his readiness for the high-stakes matchup. Given his track record of remarkable performances this season, the pressure was immense for him to deliver once again without compromise.
On the field, Smith showcased skills never before seen from such a young player. The Ohio native’s ability to break away from defenders was accentuated during the national championship, showcasing his prowess with the fake motion play initiated by offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. The up-and-coming receiver proved to be a game-changer, known for delivering under intense pressure.
While fans wonder about his continued growth, it’s pertinent to note he will not be eligible for the NFL draft for at least two more seasons, per league regulations. To qualify, players must have been out of high school for three years, meaning Smith’s earliest opportunity to enter the draft won’t be until 2027.
Nonetheless, the future looks bright for Jeremiah Smith. His exceptional performances throughout the 2025 season reflect the potential he has to redefine what it means to be a top wide receiver both for Ohio State and beyond. Even as speculation lingers about his possible NFL career, he remains focused on making his mark as the Buckeyes aim for greatness this season.