'I can do what he did': Elite Ohio State recruiting target already sights on matching Jeremiah Smith's impact
At Ohio State’s recent football camp, Brysen Wright, a 2028 wide receiver prospect, turned heads with his athleticism, size, and potential, earning praise as he navigates the path to becoming a future Buckeye star. While still early in his recruiting journey, Wright’s performance showcased why he’s a name to watch for Ohio State’s future classes. […]
At Ohio State’s recent football camp, Brysen Wright, a 2028 wide receiver prospect, turned heads with his athleticism, size, and potential, earning praise as he navigates the path to becoming a future Buckeye star. While still early in his recruiting journey, Wright’s performance showcased why he’s a name to watch for Ohio State’s future classes.
Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, and already standing over 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, Wright arrived at the camp eager to prove himself among elite talent. During drills, Wright displayed crisp route-running and a hunger to improve, absorbing feedback from coaches and older campers alike.
Wright’s interactions with current Buckeyes, including standout playmaker Jeremiah Smith, further fueled his growth. He soaked up advice on technique and the recruiting process, earning respect from peers.
While Wright isn’t yet at the level of a five-star recruit like Smith, his camp performance showed flashes of the tools needed to thrive in Columbus.
"It inspires me a lot to come and fill in his tracks and just do what he did," Wright said when asked about Smith. "I can basically just do what he did, have a very outstanding freshman year and just keep going on from there."
"I want to be the No. 1 receiver in my class, the No. 1 athlete in my class," Wright said. "Just how hard I work and just how I've got my mind in the game. I'm just very much a student athlete. I take the game very seriously."
Smith's impact on the recruiting trail is already proving invaluable for the Buckeyes. As a true freshman wide receiver, Smith has quickly become a cornerstone not only on the field but also in attracting top talent to Columbus.
Smith, a former five-star recruit and the No. 1 wide receiver in the 2024 class, has transitioned seamlessly into a leadership role, showcasing maturity and charisma that resonate with prospective Buckeyes.
His presence at the camp was magnetic, drawing attention from high school prospects eager to emulate his path. One camp participant noted, “Watching Jeremiah work, you see why he’s special. He’s out here coaching us up, making everybody better.”
Ohio State’s coaching staff, led by wide receivers coach Brian Hartline, has leaned on Smith to connect with recruits, leveraging his recent experience as a top prospect. “Jeremiah’s a natural,” Hartline said. “He’s got that ability to relate to these kids, show them what it takes, and make them want to be part of this program.”
Smith’s work ethic and humility set a tone that aligns perfectly with Ohio State’s culture of excellence, making him a powerful ambassador for the program.
“He’s not that much older than us, but he’s already like a pro,” one high school receiver said. “It makes you want to come here and be part of what he’s building.”
Smith’s on-field dominance as a freshman, including a complete takeover of the College Football Playoff en route to winning a National Championship, gives him credibility that resonates with recruits.
His ability to balance stardom with approachability has made him a recruiting weapon, helping the Buckeyes secure commitments from top prospects. “Jeremiah shows them the blueprint,” Hartline added. “He’s proof that if you come here and put in the work, you can be elite.”
As Ohio State continues to build its 2026 and 2027 classes, Smith’s influence is undeniable. His presence at camps and his interactions with recruits are helping solidify the Buckeyes’ reputation as a destination for elite talent. “I want to help bring the best guys here,” Smith said. “This place changed my life, and I know it can do the same for them.”
With Smith leading the charge, Ohio State’s recruiting momentum shows no signs of slowing down. His impact, both as a player and a recruiter, is already shaping the future of Buckeye football.