Jermiah Smith, a true freshman wide receiver for Ohio State, has quickly made his presence known in one of the most competitive programs in college football. Smith, a five-star recruit from Chaminade-Madonna Prep in Florida, came to Ohio State as the top-ranked receiver in his class. His high school career was nothing short of extraordinary, amassing over 3,000 receiving yards and 45 touchdowns while leading his team to three consecutive state championships.
Smith’s combination of size, speed, and skill set him apart early in his high school career, catching the attention of top college programs. Standing at 6’3″ and around 200 pounds, he possesses the physical attributes of an elite wide receiver. His ability to dominate opposing defenses was clear as he consistently posted big performances, such as a 316-yard, three-touchdown game during his senior year. He also excelled in track, winning state titles in hurdles, further showcasing his athleticism.
Joining Ohio State meant stepping into a wide receiver room already loaded with talent, but Smith’s potential has allowed him to stand out. Described as a “freak” athlete by his coaches, Smith has been regarded as a future star, ready to contribute from day one.
Even as a freshman, he competes for playing time alongside other highly regarded wideouts like Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate. His familiarity with Tate, having played together in a 7-on-7 league, has eased his transition and contributed to their on-field chemistry.
Smith’s early days with Ohio State have already drawn comparisons to previous standout receivers who went on to have successful NFL careers. With the departure of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Julian Fleming, Smith has an opportunity to fill the gap and make an immediate impact. His physicality and ability to create mismatches on the outside make him a versatile threat, whether or not he secures a starting role right away. Coaches and teammates alike have praised his maturity and work ethic, noting that his learning curve has been impressively steep for someone so young.
Although Smith is just starting his college journey, expectations are high. His talent and potential place him as a future first-round NFL draft pick if he continues to develop under Ohio State’s wide receiver coach Brian Hartline, who has built a reputation for producing elite wideouts. Many believe that by the end of his college career, Smith could be the best receiver in the nation.
In sum, Jeremiah Smith is a freshman to watch, and his ability to make an immediate impact only adds to the excitement surrounding his potential long-term success at Ohio State.