In what could be a franchise-defining move, the Las Vegas Raiders have officially addressed their strong intention to pursue Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, one of the most electrifying prospects in recent memory. Widely considered the No. 1 player in college football entering the 2025 season, Smith has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, and the Raiders are positioning themselves to make a serious run at drafting him.
Jeremiah Smith: College Football’s Premier Playmaker
Jeremiah Smith has been nothing short of sensational for Ohio State, emerging as the top wide receiver in the country and earning the No. 1 ranking in CBS Sports’ 2025 Top 150 Player Rankings. A five-star recruit coming out of high school, Smith’s collegiate dominance has only strengthened his draft stock.
At 6’3”, 205 pounds, Smith combines elite size, route-running precision, and high-level speed. He posted 1,472 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns during his sophomore season and has continued to evolve into a polished, NFL-ready weapon. Scouts praise his ability to create separation, make contested catches, and turn short gains into explosive plays.
Raiders’ Front Office Makes Intentions Clear
According to team sources, the Raiders’ front office—led by GM Tom Telesco and new head coach Pete Carroll—has identified Smith as their top wide receiver target for the 2025 draft. With veteran wideout Davante Adams nearing the twilight of his career and slot receiver Hunter Renfrow set to enter free agency, the Raiders are seeking a dynamic outside threat who can redefine their passing game for the next decade.
“We’re always evaluating talent at every position, but Jeremiah Smith is a special kind of athlete,” Coach Pete Carroll said following OTA practice. “He has the tools to be a game-changer in this league, and guys like that don’t come around often.”
How Smith Fits the Raiders’ Offensive Vision
Under Carroll, the Raiders are rebuilding their offense around explosiveness and versatility. With tight end Brock Bowers already becoming a centerpiece and rookie RB Ashton Jeanty poised to ignite the run game, adding a player of Smith’s caliber would complete a youthful offensive trifecta capable of dominating for years to come.
Smith would provide a vertical threat the Raiders have lacked in recent years. His presence would stretch defenses and open up the middle of the field for Bowers, while also drawing attention away from Jeanty’s ground attack. Simply put, he could be the Raiders’ version of Justin Jefferson or Ja’Marr Chase—a true WR1 from day one.
Draft Positioning and Potential Trade Scenarios
Currently, the Raiders are projected to pick in the mid-first round based on 2024 performance, which could make landing Smith a challenge. Several quarterback-needy teams are likely to select early, but if Smith rises into the top 5, the Raiders may need to trade up to secure him.
Sources indicate that the Raiders are prepared to use a package including their 2026 first-round pick and additional capital to move up if needed.
“When you believe a player can redefine your franchise, you do what it takes to get him,” said one anonymous team executive.
Jeremiah Smith Responds to Raiders Buzz
Though he remains focused on finishing his college career strong, Smith briefly commented on the Raiders’ reported interest during a media availability at Ohio State:
“It’s always an honor to be talked about by NFL teams. I just want to prove I can be the best at the next level—whoever picks me is getting everything I’ve got.”
The Road Ahead
With the 2025 NFL Draft less than a year away, the Raiders’ early declaration of interest in Jeremiah Smith is a bold and transparent signal of their vision for the future. If Las Vegas can pair Smith with Bowers and Jeanty under Carroll’s leadership, they may form one of the league’s most dangerous young offenses.
For a franchise seeking a return to greatness, Jeremiah Smith may be the final piece of the puzzle.