Everyone knows Jeremiah Smith is an excellent football player. But just how good is he?
Jeremiah Smith is already the consensus top player in the 2027 NFL Draft, but most fans don’t realize the extent of his skill set. He’s a potential dream pairing in the New Orleans Saints’ offense and would be a perfect complement to Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson.
Smith, the six-foot-three, 223-pound true junior, has had an illustrious first two collegiate seasons, being named an All-American twice. So far, he’s totalled 163 receptions, 2,554 yards, and 27 touchdowns in his career in Columbus. Smith is likely to be the most dignified receiver in Ohio State history, as he only needs a statline of 43 receptions, 311 yards, and nine touchdowns to be their all-time leader in each of those categories.
Smith is among the top athletes in the nation and uses his staggering speed and physicality to dominate opposing cornerbacks at the catch point. He fires off the line of scrimmage with his elite acceleration and maintains that quickness throughout the route. Even if a defender stays with him, his reliable hands and unparalleled leaping ability turn 50/50 balls into 80/20 ones.
Most athletically dominant receivers like him rely purely on their physicality and speed to create separation, but not Jeremiah Smith. It’s uncanny to find a receiver with his frame that’s this fluid. He’s an amazing route runner and can sink his hips, decelerate on a dime, and make a rapid cut. He’s nuanced and understands how to stem defenders or find open space against zone coverage.
We’ve established that Smith is exceptional before the catch, but he’s equally impressive after it. His rare combination of power and elusiveness makes him a hassle to tackle. He often takes multiple defenders to slow him down. Because of this, he’s dynamic in the screen game and is capable of turning a measly gain into a game-changing touchdown.
It’s hard to find a serious fault in Smith’s game without nitpicking. His blocking consistency can be improved; he undoubtedly has the skill and strength, but he needs to be more reliable. Additionally, there are instances where he rounds his routes. However, these are both small and can easily be improved in 2026.
The goal of summer scouting isn’t to say that the Saints must draft Jeremiah Smith. Instead, its goal is to identify him as a potential prospect who could resurface next April. With these qualities, it’s hard to see Smith falling outside of the top ten, probably even top five, of the 2027 NFL Draft. Regardless, Saints fans should still know and pay close attention to him throughout the season. He would be a dream fit in Kellen Moore’s offense and would perfectly complement Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson.
