As the NIL era continues to reshape college football, Ohio State is facing a challenging reality just days after securing a national championship. Star wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate have reportedly been approached with substantial offers from other programs. Despite the lucrative deals, both players appear to be committed to remaining with the Buckeyes—for now.
Smith, widely regarded as one of college football’s brightest emerging talents, had an outstanding freshman year in 2024, amassing 76 catches for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns. He was reportedly offered a deal worth at least $4.5 million to enter the transfer portal, tempting him to leave Ohio State. Tate, who registered 52 catches for 733 yards and four touchdowns in 2024, also faced similar pressure, with a seven-figure offer on the table. As a rising junior and a former five-star recruit, Tate is expected to step into a larger role with the departure of Emeka Egbuka.
However, despite the tempting offers, both players have chosen to stay with Ohio State—at least for now. Head coach Ryan Day, aware of the looming winter transfer portal window, quickly worked to re-recruit his roster after the championship win. The program, which reportedly spent $20 million to build its 2024 championship-winning roster, is doing everything it can to keep its key players. Matching the $5.5 million offers for Smith and Tate would take up a significant portion of Ohio State’s NIL budget, but negotiations are ongoing to secure their future with the team.
For now, the Buckeyes can breathe easy, as Smith and Tate have chosen to stay put, but the battle for their loyalty is far from over.
