Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith stands out as the best NFL prospect in ‘The Game’ against Michigan, showcasing a talent level that is rare for a freshman.
This iconic rivalry typically features future first-round NFL draft picks, and this year is no exception, with seven draft-eligible players from both teams highlighted in the latest 2025 mock draft.
However, the spotlight shines brightest on Smith, who, at just 19 years old, is not included in the draft predictions due to his status as a true freshman. NFL regulations require players to be at least three years removed from high school graduation to be eligible for the draft.
Despite this setback, Smith is already regarded as NFL-ready, with many analysts predicting he would be the first wide receiver selected in the 2025 NFL Draft if he were eligible.
[Related: Inside Jeremiah Smith’s rise to stardom]
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 215 pounds, Smith entered Ohio State as a consensus five-star recruit and the top prospect across several rankings. He combines his impressive size with exceptional speed and soft hands, along with advanced route-running skills and a strong work ethic. This has left coaches and NFL scouts alike in awe of his potential.
“Sometimes you look at him, you don’t even think he’s quite human,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day remarked after Smith’s standout debut, where he caught six passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns.
“He’s built different,” Day added, emphasizing Smith’s extraordinary physical attributes.
However, Chip Kelly, the Buckeyes’ offensive coordinator, insists that it is not just Smith’s physical prowess that sets him apart, but also his maturity.
“His physical skills are kind of incomparable for someone at that age, but it’s his maturity level that has set him apart,” Kelly explained, noting that Smith approaches practices and meetings with a professionalism rarely seen in someone his age.
Smith’s high school career was nothing short of spectacular, as he led Chaminade-Madonna Prep to an undefeated season and a state championship in 2023. He finished with 88 receptions for 1,376 yards and 19 touchdowns, earning his team its third consecutive state title.
In addition to his football success, Smith excelled in track, winning state titles in the 110- and 400-meter hurdles. He chose to enroll early at Ohio State, joining a program that has produced four first-round wide receiver draft picks in recent years, including Garrett Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr.
Smith’s speed translates seamlessly onto the football field, where he demonstrates remarkable agility and the ability to create separation from defenders. His refined route-running and ball-tracking skills further elevate his game.
In the red zone, he becomes nearly unstoppable, showcasing exceptional hand-eye coordination and strength to secure catches in tight coverage.
Smith has already shattered freshman records for receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, boasting an impressive 52 catches for 899 yards and nine touchdowns over just 11 games. His performance has garnered attention from both Biletnikoff and Heisman Award voters.
Critics may argue that Smith benefits from playing alongside veteran teammates, including senior wideout Emeka Egbuka and experienced quarterback Will Howard. Even though Smith is ineligible for the draft this year, Ohio State is anticipated to lead the nation in draft prospects.
Michigan, with a 6-5 record this season, is not the powerhouse it was last year when it produced 13 NFL draft picks. The Wolverines, like Ohio State, relied heavily on underclassmen last season.
While quarterback J.J. McCarthy was Michigan’s top draft prospect, cornerback Will Johnson and defensive tackle Mason Graham are also highly regarded. Johnson has drawn comparisons to NFL stars for his impressive size and speed.
A potential matchup between Smith and Johnson would provide an exciting spectacle for NFL scouts. However, Johnson’s recent injury has cast doubt on his availability for the game.
If Johnson cannot play, Michigan’s chances of winning against Ohio State may diminish, while Smith would have an even larger stage to showcase his exceptional talent.
