Could Jeremiah Smith be a generational NFL draft receiver prospect? Let's answer seven questions — SkimNews
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- Jeremiah Smith recorded 52 receptions for 984 yards and 12 touchdowns through seven 2026 games, ranking second in the FBS in receiving yards and touchdowns while averaging 18.9 yards per catch.
- Jordan Reid entered 2026 with Smith ranked No. 1 overall and has already graded him All-Pro, the highest such grade he has given any player at any position since Myles Garrett in 2017.
- Jeremiah Smith is backed as Ohio State’s best receiver by Garrett Wilson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba and has broken the Buckeyes’ career records for receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns.
- Jeremiah Smith has a strong argument to become the first receiver selected No. 1 since Keyshawn Johnson in 1996, with Reid citing his talent and the draft’s lack of a consensus quarterback No. 1.
- Jeremiah Smith caught a 57-yard fade against a double-team at Penn State, which Julian Sayin singled out; Smith finished with six receptions for 123 yards and two touchdowns, including a one-handed score.
- Jeremiah Smith has 331 of 984 yards after the catch in 2026 (33.6%), compared with 389 of 1,243 (31.3%) in 2025; Reid wants crisper change-of-direction, while a scout wants more consistent run-after-catch production.
- Jeremiah Smith said Indiana double-teamed him on every play, yet he caught a 38-yard touchdown in Ohio State’s 19-15 win over the defending national champions; Texas also won 24-23 despite Smith’s eight catches for 164 yards and a touchdown.
Why it matters: The draft’s lack of a consensus quarterback No. 1 strengthens Smith’s case for the first pick, a selection no receiver has made since Keyshawn Johnson in 1996. His 984 yards, 12 touchdowns and 18.9-yards-per-catch average give NFL clubs a rare 6-foot-4 weapon, while scouts still identify crisper routes and more yards after the catch as gaps.
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