Freshman Jeremiah Smith has burst onto the college football scene, solidifying his status as one of the most exciting wide receivers in the game today. The Ohio State standout, who just celebrated his 19th birthday on November 29, is continuing the legacy of remarkable Buckeyes receivers like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. With each game, Smith showcases his immense talent and potential, making waves not just in the Big Ten but across the entire nation.
Impressive Stats and Performance
Through 14 games this season, Smith has racked up an impressive 70 receptions for 1,224 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. This remarkable achievement includes at least one touchdown in all but three games, proving that he is a reliable target for his quarterbacks. His ability to make big plays and contribute consistently has football fans buzzing about his future, with many already speculating about when he might make the leap to the NFL.
Smith’s performances have not only caught the attention of fans but also of NFL scouts. The question on everyone’s mind is: when will this young star be eligible for the NFL Draft?
When is Jeremiah Smith eligible for the NFL Draft?
The answer is that Smith will not be eligible to declare for the NFL Draft until 2027. Although he has made a significant impact in his debut season with the Buckeyes, he is still in his first year removed from high school. According to NFL rules, players must be three years removed from high school and have utilized their collegiate eligibility before they can enter the NFL Draft.
This means that the 18-year-old Smith has a full three years ahead of him in college football. This time will be crucial for his development as he aims to become the most complete receiver he can be. Coming out of Chaminade-Madonna Prep in Florida as a five-star recruit, Smith has certainly lived up to the hype in his initial collegiate games.
Future Projections and Expectations
As Smith continues to shine on the field, the buzz surrounding his potential NFL career grows louder. While it may be early to make definitive predictions about the 2027 NFL Draft, some analysts are already placing Smith among the top prospects. His development and health over the coming years will be vital, but if he maintains his current trajectory, he could very well hear his name called early in the draft.
Marvin Harrison Jr., a former Buckeye and now an Arizona Cardinal, has even gone so far as to predict that Smith will be a top-3 selection in the NFL Draft when he becomes eligible. This kind of endorsement from a current NFL player speaks volumes about Smith’s talent and potential.
College Football Awards and Recognition
Smith’s early success has not gone unnoticed. Sportskeeda recently listed him as one of its 10 "promising prospects" for the 2027 NFL Draft class. Joining him on this prestigious list are notable names like Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams, South Carolina defensive end Dylan Stewart, and his own teammate at Ohio State, quarterback Julian Sayin. This recognition highlights the caliber of talent Smith possesses and the bright future that lies ahead.
But for now, Smith remains focused on his college career. He is becoming one of the faces of Ohio State’s football program, and his contributions are helping the Buckeyes compete at the highest level. As he continues to develop, fans are eager to see how he will impact the remainder of the season and beyond.
The Big Ten and Beyond
Unfortunately for the rest of the Big Ten, unless he decides to transfer, Smith will be donning the Buckeyes uniform for at least the next two seasons. This is a daunting prospect for opposing teams, as Smith has already proven himself to be a game-changer on the field. His combination of speed, agility, and catching ability makes him a nightmare for defenders.
The excitement surrounding Smith is palpable, and it raises an intriguing question: how will he continue to evolve as a player? With the right coaching and experience, he has the potential to become a household name in college football and eventually in the NFL.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Jeremiah Smith. His journey is just beginning, and the future looks incredibly bright. Buckeyes fans and NFL enthusiasts alike are eager to see what this young superstar will accomplish in the coming years. With his talent and determination, there’s no telling just how far he can go.
