Jeremiah Smith American football wide receiver

Jeremiah Smith, born on November 29, 2005, in Miami Gardens, Florida, has rapidly ascended to prominence in American football as a wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes. His journey from a young aspirant to a collegiate standout is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and exceptional talent.

Growing up in Hollywood, Florida, Smith faced early challenges in his football journey. At the age of seven, he tried out for the Miami Gardens Ravens youth football team but did not make the roster. This setback became a pivotal moment for Smith and his father, Chris, motivating him to intensify his training and commitment to the sport. The following year, his hard work paid off as he not only made the team but also earned the league’s version of the Heisman Trophy, signaling the beginning of a promising career.

Attending Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory School, Smith’s high school career was marked by remarkable achievements. In his sophomore year, he recorded 31 receptions for 667 yards and seven touchdowns. His junior year saw even greater success with 58 catches totaling 1,073 yards and 20 touchdowns. Beyond the football field, Smith showcased his athletic versatility by winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship in both the 110-meter and 400-meter hurdles during his junior year. His senior season culminated in All-American honors and the prestigious All-American Bowl Player of the Year Award.

As a five-star recruit, Smith was the top-ranked prospect in the 2024 college football recruiting class. His exceptional skills and performance made him the highest-rated wide receiver recruit in the modern era, surpassing notable players like Dorial Green-Beckham and Julio Jones. Smith committed to Ohio State University, choosing the Buckeyes over offers from esteemed programs such as Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Miami, and USC.

Smith’s impact at Ohio State was immediate and profound. In his college debut against the Akron Zips, he led the team with six receptions for 92 yards and two touchdowns, contributing significantly to a 52–6 victory. His performance earned him the Big Ten Conference Freshman of the Week honors after a standout game against Michigan State, where he amassed 102 yards and two touchdowns on six touches.

The pinnacle of Smith’s freshman season came during the 2025 Rose Bowl against the Oregon Ducks. He delivered an MVP-worthy performance with seven catches for 187 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Buckeyes to a decisive win. His outstanding season also saw him breaking Ohio State’s freshman records for receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns, records that had stood for four decades since Cris Carter’s 1984 season.

Smith’s freshman year accolades include being named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, Big Ten Receiver of the Year, and earning first-team All-American honors from selectors such as USA Today and ESPN. His contributions were instrumental in Ohio State’s triumphant campaign, culminating in a victory at the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship. During this championship run, Smith set FBS single-season records for receiving yards and touchdowns by a true freshman, underscoring his exceptional talent and poise under pressure.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Smith’s work ethic and physical prowess have drawn significant attention. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 215 pounds, he has demonstrated remarkable strength and speed, including a bench press of 355 pounds, a squat of 530 pounds, and a top running speed of 23.39 miles per hour. These attributes earned him a spot on The Athletic’s 2024 Freaks List, highlighting his extraordinary physical capabilities.

Smith’s success is also a source of pride for his family, particularly his cousin, Geno Smith, the starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. This family connection to professional football has provided Smith with valuable insights and inspiration as he continues to develop his career.

As he progresses in his collegiate career, Jeremiah Smith is poised to leave an indelible mark on Ohio State’s storied football program. His combination of talent, dedication, and resilience not only sets him apart as a remarkable athlete but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring football pl

ayers nationwide.