The Buckeyes are riding high after their recent national championship victory over Notre Dame, but the excitement is tempered by uncertainty regarding one of their star players. Star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who had a standout season leading Ohio State in receiving, is currently weighing his options. Just days after the championship game, reports indicate that Smith is in discussions about whether to remain in Columbus or enter the transfer portal.
Jeremiah Smith’s potential move
The clock is ticking for players from both Ohio State and Notre Dame, as they have until January 25 to enter their names into the transfer portal. According to reports, Smith is considering a lucrative offer from another school, which has been rumored to be around $4.5 million. This kind of financial incentive is becoming increasingly common in college football, where the landscape has shifted dramatically due to NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals.
Ohio State is actively trying to retain its roster, with the coaching staff, including head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, working hard to keep their top talents. While the Buckeyes will have to adjust to the loss of quarterback Will Howard, who is out of eligibility, they are expected to rely on Julian Sayin, a talented transfer from Alabama. This transition could play a significant role in Smith’s decision-making process.
Smith’s impressive stats
Despite being a true freshman, Smith made an immediate impact on the field. He emerged as the focal point of Ohio State’s offense, finishing the season with remarkable statistics. He led the Buckeyes with 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 17.3 yards per catch. His performance was not just a flash in the pan; he outpaced fellow receivers like Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate by over 300 yards.
| Season |
Receptions |
Yards |
TDs |
YPC |
Rush Yards |
Rush TDs |
| 2024 |
76 |
1,315 |
15 |
17.3 |
47 |
1 |
NIL deals and financial implications
While the exact dollar amount Smith earned during the 2024-25 season hasn’t been disclosed, Ohio State is known for investing heavily in its roster, reportedly spending $20 million to build their national championship-winning team. Smith has secured various NIL deals with prominent companies like Nintendo, Red Bull, and Lululemon, which undoubtedly contribute to his financial standing. As a former five-star recruit and the No. 1 overall prospect in the country according to the 247Sports Composite, it’s clear that Smith was offered a lucrative NIL deal to join the Buckeyes.
Speculation about Smith’s future
As speculation swirls around Smith’s future, some analysts, including Matt Hayes from USA Today, suggest that he might consider transferring to Miami, which recently acquired quarterback Carson Beck from Georgia. This potential move would bring Smith closer to his hometown of Opa Locka, Florida, but for now, it seems these discussions are part of the typical post-season chatter among college football players.
On Friday, Smith responded to a tweet that appeared to reference the ongoing rumors about his future. The tweet, originating from Jay Wimbrow, who is associated with Smith’s former 7-on-7 team, caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Smith’s response, a simple “💯,” suggests he is aware of the speculation but may not be ready to make any definitive statements just yet.
The landscape of college football
The landscape of college football has transformed into a free-market economy, where players are not only athletes but also valuable commodities. With the potential for massive NIL deals, schools are competing fiercely to attract and retain top talent. This environment can make it challenging for programs like Ohio State to keep their star players, especially when other schools are willing to offer lucrative contracts.
While it may make sense for Smith to remain with the Buckeyes, given their recent success and the strong offensive lineup, the allure of a new opportunity and financial gain cannot be overlooked. As the January 25 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Smith and his decision-making process.
For now, the college football world is abuzz with anticipation. If Smith does decide to enter the transfer portal, it would undoubtedly shake up the landscape of college football and make headlines across the nation. The next few days will be pivotal for Smith and the Buckeyes as they navigate this critical juncture in his promising career.
