Jaxon Smith-Njigba Expects Big 2026 Season from Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith

The former Buckeye star believes the rising junior receiver will continue to shine in Columbus.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:27pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting in bold shades of scarlet, gray, and orange, representing the clash between Ohio State and Miami on the college football field.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes matchup between Ohio State and Miami in the 2026 College Football Playoff, capturing the dynamic energy and intensity of the game.Today in Miami

Former Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has high expectations for current Buckeyes star Jeremiah Smith heading into the 2026 season. Smith-Njigba, who had a breakout year for Ohio State in 2021, says he isn't necessarily a 'mentor' to Smith, but the two stay in touch and Smith-Njigba is excited to see his former teammate continue to excel at the college level.

Why it matters

Jeremiah Smith is one of the top returning receivers in college football after a standout sophomore campaign in 2025. His continued development and success at Ohio State is crucial for the Buckeyes as they look to compete for a national championship in 2026.

The details

Smith burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2024, racking up 1,315 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns to help Ohio State win the national title. He followed that up with an All-American season in 2025, catching 87 passes for 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns. Smith finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting last year and will be looking to take another step forward in 2026 with Julian Sayin at quarterback.

  • Jeremiah Smith had a breakout freshman season in 2024.
  • Smith had an All-American season in 2025, catching 87 passes for 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns.
  • Smith will enter his junior season at Ohio State in 2026.

The players

Jeremiah Smith

A rising junior wide receiver at Ohio State who has emerged as one of the top receivers in college football after standout seasons in 2024 and 2025.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

A former star wide receiver at Ohio State who had a breakout season in 2021 and was selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks.

Julian Sayin

The starting quarterback at Ohio State, who will be entering his second season as the Buckeyes' signal-caller in 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I wouldn't say a mentor, but he knows anything he needs, he can always call me, text. We definitely get together, talk some ball. Just super proud of him and him pushing the bar even further than what we did.”

— Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Former Ohio State Wide Receiver

What’s next

Jeremiah Smith will look to build on his impressive first two seasons at Ohio State and lead the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2026. He will be eligible for the NFL Draft following the 2026 season and is already generating buzz as one of the top prospects.

The takeaway

Jeremiah Smith's continued development and success at Ohio State is crucial for the Buckeyes as they aim to compete for a national title in 2026. The fact that he has the support and guidance of a former Buckeyes star like Jaxon Smith-Njigba should only help Smith reach new heights in his junior season.