Ohio State star receiver Jeremiah Smith revealed this week just how close he was to taking his talents to the Miami Hurricanes two years ago.
Jeremiah Smith took college football by storm in 2024 as a true freshman for the Buckeyes. In his first season in the Big Ten, the wide receiver led the team not just in yards (1,315) but also touchdowns (15) on just 76 catches. Ohio State does not win a National Championship last season without the young star.
However, things could have been different. Although OSU was a favorite to land him in 2023, the Hurricanes were reportedly a serious contender to win his recruiting sweepstakes. On Tuesday, Smith revealed to On3 just how close he got to taking his talents to Miami two years ago.
Jeremiah Smith stats: 76 catches, 1,315 receiving yards, 15 touchdowns, 17.3 yards per catch
"What went into me taking a long time to send my NIL was people on the business side of things. That night [that he sent his paperwork in], I definitely talked to Cam Ward . Thought about something… I didn't really tell him [that he was choosing OSU]. We just got on the phone, and he was like, 'What you gonna do?' And I was like, 'I don't know.' Then, a couple of hours later, I sent the NIL in."
Jeremiah Smith NIL value: $4.2 million
Smith admits he has not talked to Ward since he made his decision. However, he does not believe the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft and new Tennessee Titans QB holds any grudges.
The Hurricanes had an outstanding offense in 2024 and posted a 10-3 record. Many in Miami believe that if Smith had committed to the program, they would have reached the college football playoffs and had a chance to compete for a National title. Ohio State fans are very happy he did not choose South Beach over Columbus.
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