Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Ohio State Reacts to Latest Jeremiah Smith News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Aug 4, 2025 2:27 PM ET

The Ohio State Buckeyes are set to open their season on August 30 in a highly anticipated matchup against Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns—a rematch of last season’s College Football Playoff semifinals, which featured a defensive showdown from both teams.

While Ohio State and Texas will each debut a new starting quarterback—Texas with Manning and Ohio State likely starting either Julian Sayin or Lincoln Kienholz—Columbus still boasts arguably the best offensive player in the country: wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.

Smith recorded 76 receptions for 1,315 yards, 15 touchdowns, and averaged 17.3 yards per catch while appearing in 16 games across the regular season and postseason.

As he enters his sophomore season, Ohio State announced Monday that Smith, along with teammate Caleb Downs, has been named to the Walter Camp Player of the Year preseason watch list.

Preseason Walter Camp Player of the Year Watch List honors," Ohio State posted. @Jermiah_Smith1 x @caleb_downs2."

Preseason Walter Camp Player of the Year Watch List honors
@Jermiah_Smith1 x @caleb_downs2 pic.twitter.com/Ipw3hFPaXL
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) August 4, 2025

Jeremiah Smith isn’t one for many words, but his production speaks volumes. While he still has college eligibility left, he is already being regarded as one of the future superstars at his position and a likely top pick in the 2027 NFL draft after his junior season.

At Big Ten Media Day, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day revealed that Smith has gotten bigger, faster, and stronger during the offseason

"He's gotten bigger and stronger and faster than he was last year," Day said. "He just sets such a standard. And you don't need to motivate Jeremiah. ... He may not be an older guy, he may not be vocal in terms of his leadership, but what he does on the field speaks for himself. ... He deserves an opportunity to be here today and that's why he's here."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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