The term “generational talent” is used far too casually. In Jeremiah Smith’s case, it may actually apply.
Calvin Johnson entered the NFL in 2007. He’s held the title as the standard-bearer for all wide receiver prospects since that point. Twenty years is long enough. Smith should be primed to take the title. This claim may be lofty, but the Ohio State target has everything a team wants as a legitimate WR1.
First, the 20-year-old target is listed at 6’3″ and 223 pounds. He has the frame, body control and explosiveness to dominate ever since the 5-star recruit stepped onto campus (2,558 yards in his first two seasons). The two-time Big Ten Wide Receiver of the Year and first-team all-conference selection generated NFL excitement over a year ago.
“The fact you’re that big, move that fluidly, then have the body control to adjust your body to make these ridiculous catches—it’s just, check, check, check,” an NFC personnel executive told ESPN’s Jake Trotter before the 2025 NFL draft.
An AFC scout added, “That’s what jumps off the film when you watch him. You place him in this draft and you’re like, ‘Well, I don’t really see anyone on that level.'”
To that point, Smith will almost certainly open the 2027 cycle as the No. 1 prospect regardless of position. Wide receiver may not be viewed as a traditional premium position, but an exploding market changed the math, with nine NFL targets now claiming contracts worth $110 million or more.
Besides, Smith is legitimately worthy of being the first wide receiver selected No. 1 overall since Keyshawn Johnson even in a class featuring significant quarterback talent.