Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith confirmed he will remain with the Buckeyes for the 2026 season. He turned down a reported $10 million offer tied to the transfer portal.
Smith spoke at Big Ten Media Days in Chicago. He said the large NIL offer was real but he never planned to leave. “Yeah, that’s true,” Smith replied when asked about the $10 million figure.
He explained his decision to stay. Smith said Ohio State has the best offensive line, the best quarterback and the best coaches in the country. Leaving for another program would not make sense under those conditions, according to Smith. He wants to chase another championship and continue building his legacy in Columbus.
Smith also noted that many schools contacted him after offensive coordinator Brian Hartline left Ohio State for a head coaching job at South Florida. Despite the interest, Smith stayed committed to the Buckeyes.
The 2026 season will be Smith’s final year at Ohio State. He is eligible for the NFL draft after this campaign and has indicated it is time to move on to the next level. “Kind of sad,” Smith said of it being his last season, “but I’m going to give it everything I got.”
Smith has produced strong numbers over his first two seasons with 163 receptions, 2,558 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns. He ranks among the top wide receivers in college football.
Smith grew up viewing Alabama as a dream school because of its history of developing South Florida receivers. The Crimson Tide did not recruit him after his early commitment to Ohio State.
Ohio State coach Ryan Day has praised Smith’s toughness and contribution to the team. The Buckeyes enter the 2026 season with high expectations in the Big Ten and the national title race.
Smith’s choice keeps one of college football’s top talents in Columbus for one more year.