HOLLYWOOD, Fla. - In a highly anticipated decision, talented wide receiver Jeremiah Smith officially signed with the Ohio State Buckeyes late Wednesday night, fulfilling the commitment he made to Ohio State's wide receivers coach, Brian Hartline, over a year ago. Smith's signing comes after a fierce recruitment battle involving top football programs, including Florida State, Miami, and Florida.

Smith's decision to choose Ohio State was solely based on football considerations. He firmly believes that Hartline is the best receivers coach in college football, and the track record of producing NFL first-round draft picks under Hartline's guidance was unmatched by any other coach. Despite tempting offers from rival schools, which included lucrative name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, Smith was drawn to the prospect of playing under Hartline in Columbus.

"It's all about football and school for Coach Hartline," Smith emphasized, expressing his admiration for the coaching philosophy at Ohio State. The young receiver acknowledges the exclusivity of the receiver room and believes that only players fully dedicated to the sport and their academics can thrive under Hartline's tutelage.

The process of Smith's official signing with Ohio State faced a slight delay, leaving football fans eagerly waiting for the confirmation from the university. The delay was attributed to Smith's NIL representative, who wanted to ensure that the promises made to Smith during the recruitment process would be documented.

While NCAA rules strictly state that NIL cannot be used as an inducement for recruits, it has become an inevitable aspect of the recruiting process. Smith's commitment to Ohio State signifies the growing importance of NIL opportunities in a player's decision-making. College programs without attractive NIL prospects may struggle to secure the commitments of top-tier athletes.

Smith's choice to leave his home state of Florida and join the Buckeyes was not an easy one. He faced immense pressure to stay local and received multiple pitches from in-state schools. Despite alluring offers, Smith's admiration for Hartline's coaching and Ohio State's impressive track record of developing receivers ultimately sealed his decision.

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 205 pounds, Smith is considered a generational talent with exceptional speed, hands, and work ethic. Throughout his senior year, he recorded impressive statistics, catching 90 passes for 1,389 yards and 19 touchdowns, even against nationally ranked opponents.

The arduous recruitment process took its toll on Smith and his family. Nevertheless, with the signing ceremony now behind them, there is a sense of relief and excitement for Smith as he embarks on his journey to Columbus and begins his quest to become an NFL first-round draft pick.

For Smith, the recruiting process was a test of personal strength, with numerous outside distractions vying for his attention. Yet, he remained composed and guided by his faith, seeking solace in conversations with his family and his grandmother, who emphasized the importance of keeping God first.

As Smith bids farewell to his youth football buddies and Chaminade teammates, including fellow standout receiver Joshisa Trader, who committed to Miami, he is steadfast in his belief that choosing Ohio State was the best decision for his future. While the opportunity to play alongside Trader at the collegiate level would have been rewarding, Smith understands that this was ultimately a business decision.

The signing of Jeremiah Smith further strengthens Ohio State's reputation as a premier destination for aspiring wide receivers. With eight former Buckeye receivers currently on NFL rosters and recent first-round draft selections in Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Smith's commitment further solidifies Ohio State's standing as a top program for developing NFL-caliber talent.

Smith's signing with the Buckeyes serves as a testament to the school's football program, the coaching staff, and the allure of the possibility of reaching the pinnacle of the sport. As Smith prepares to join the ranks of Ohio State, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the continued growth of this exceptional talent as he looks to create his own legacy in Columbus.