Jeremiah Smith of Ohio State is expected to have several All-Pro seasons: He might be the greatest of all time.

Jeremiah Smith, a standout player from Ohio State, has long been regarded as a potential future star in professional football. With his remarkable physical traits, exceptional skills, and a promising trajectory, Smith is viewed by many as not just an elite prospect but potentially one of the greatest players to ever step onto the football field. The discussion surrounding his future, including predictions of him having several All-Pro seasons, and possibly becoming the greatest of all time (GOAT), is not merely based on hyperbole. It’s grounded in the qualities he possesses, both tangible and intangible, that make him a unique and special talent.

Early Life and Development

Born and raised in Ohio, Jeremiah Smith’s athletic prowess was evident from a young age. Raised in a football-rich culture, where the sport is woven into the fabric of community life, Smith had access to some of the best high school football programs in the country. His natural gifts, including his size, speed, and agility, made him stand out from the start. Smith’s high school coach once described him as “a once-in-a-generation talent,” someone who could do it all—catch passes, run the ball, block, and even play defense. His versatility was one of the first indicators that he might not only be an incredible college player but also a future professional star.

Despite being highly recruited by programs across the country, Smith decided to stay close to home and committed to Ohio State. This decision was significant, as Ohio State has a history of developing some of the most successful players in the NFL. From legends like Archie Griffin to more recent stars like Nick Bosa and Chase Young, Ohio State’s ability to produce elite NFL talent was a driving factor in Smith’s choice.

Dominating at Ohio State

Jeremiah Smith’s time at Ohio State has been nothing short of spectacular. From his first game, it was clear that he was destined for greatness. As a freshman, he showcased his ability to make spectacular plays, whether he was out-muscling defenders for deep passes or making acrobatic catches in critical situations. His combination of size (standing at 6’4″ and weighing 225 pounds) and athleticism made him nearly impossible to defend against, even in the elite competition of the Big Ten.

However, it wasn’t just his physical tools that set Smith apart. His work ethic, attention to detail, and football IQ quickly made him one of the most complete players in the college game. He absorbed coaching quickly, and his route running became increasingly sophisticated over his time at Ohio State. He developed a rapport with his quarterbacks, consistently showing an ability to make plays in crucial moments.

By his sophomore year, Smith was already considered one of the top players at his position. His performance in big games—against Michigan, Penn State, and in bowl games—cemented his status as one of the most promising prospects in college football. Despite facing double coverage or constant defensive scheming designed to slow him down, Smith consistently rose to the occasion, making key catches in clutch situations. His consistency, paired with his undeniable talent, gave NFL scouts no doubt that he was destined for success at the next level.

The NFL Draft and Rookie Expectations

The 2025 NFL Draft was expected to be a historic one, with several elite prospects vying for the top spots. Jeremiah Smith’s name was consistently at the top of mock drafts, with many experts projecting him as the No. 1 overall pick. His combination of physical attributes, elite production, and proven ability to perform in the most pressure-packed situations made him an easy choice for NFL teams looking to build their offenses around a game-changing player.

When the draft day arrived, it was no surprise that Smith was selected early, with a team looking to elevate its roster by adding one of the most dominant players in recent memory. His entry into the league was greeted with a sense of excitement and anticipation, as fans and analysts alike began to speculate on how quickly he could adapt to the NFL and how much of an impact he would make.

Early reviews of Smith’s rookie season were glowing. His smooth transition from college to the NFL showed that his talent wasn’t just the product of a college system but rather a testament to his individual ability. His first year was marked by numerous highlight-reel catches, explosive performances, and key touchdowns in critical games. He immediately became a top target for his team, drawing defensive attention and creating opportunities for his teammates to excel as well.

The Path to All-Pro Seasons

As Smith continues to develop in the NFL, the consensus is clear: he is on the fast track to becoming one of the league’s most dominant players. All-Pro selections are an annual goal for elite players, and Smith’s blend of size, athleticism, route running, and ability to create separation makes him a prime candidate for such honors. Each year, the bar continues to rise for Smith, as he must constantly prove that he is worthy of being considered one of the league’s best. But if his college career is any indication, Smith’s ability to rise to the occasion will not only result in multiple All-Pro selections but could potentially set him on a trajectory toward becoming one of the best to ever play the game.

A key factor in Smith’s potential All-Pro future is his versatility. While he is primarily known as a receiver, his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game is something that will continue to make him an asset to his team. Smith’s strong hands allow him to fight through tackles and get additional yards after the catch. His athleticism gives him the ability to run any route in the route tree, from quick slants to deep posts, all with equal proficiency. Additionally, his leadership and football intelligence make him a valuable mentor to younger players, further solidifying his place as a future All-Pro talent.

Many analysts believe that Smith could eventually challenge for records held by the all-time greats. Players like Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, and Calvin Johnson have set the standard for receiving greatness, and Smith has all the tools to join this exclusive group. With his size and speed, he could easily become one of the most dominant wide receivers of his era. Furthermore, his ability to adjust to different quarterbacks, offensive schemes, and game situations is something that will keep him in contention for individual honors year after year.

The Greatest of All Time?

While it’s still early in Smith’s career, the whispers about his potential to be the greatest of all time (GOAT) are becoming louder. The GOAT conversation is often reserved for players who redefine the game, break records, and consistently perform at a high level for a sustained period of time. Smith’s potential to do just that is evident in several aspects of his game.

For starters, his physical attributes are rare. Standing at 6’4″ with exceptional speed and leaping ability, Smith combines traits seen in some of the most legendary players in history. His ability to high-point the ball and make contested catches in traffic is reminiscent of players like Moss and Johnson. His ability to change direction quickly and elude defenders after the catch recalls the skills of the greats who could turn short passes into game-changing plays.

Moreover, his mental game appears to be equally advanced. Smith’s ability to study film, learn defensive tendencies, and use that knowledge to his advantage is indicative of a player who has the potential to play at an elite level for years to come. His work ethic off the field is legendary, and he constantly strives to improve every aspect of his game. Smith’s competitive drive and desire to be the best could propel him to greatness in a way that few players ever experience.

In terms of his impact on the field, Smith is more than just a wide receiver. He’s a game-changer. His ability to stretch the field and force defenses to adjust opens up opportunities for his teammates to shine. He’s a focal point of opposing defensive strategies, which speaks to his dominance and importance to his team’s success. His consistent production, year after year, will be a testament to his greatness as he continues to put up numbers that challenge the all-time best.

While the GOAT conversation is often subjective, and many factors go into determining who belongs in that discussion, Smith’s potential trajectory cannot be ignored. His combination of physical tools, work ethic, and mental sharpness positions him to be in the conversation for years to come. If he continues to develop and avoid major injuries, he could very well retire with several All-Pro selections and be remembered as one of the most dominant players to ever play the game.