ESPN analyst questions Jeremiah Smith's No. 1 draft potential for 2027

Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith leads the nation with 617 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in the 2026 season. Despite his strong performance, ESPN analyst Jordan Rodgers argues that Smith's position as a wide receiver limits his chances of being the first overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. Rodgers emphasizes the historical emphasis on selecting franchise quarterbacks at the top of the draft, noting no wide receiver has been picked first since 1996. Smith's combination of size and skill has generated considerable interest, positioning him among the top prospects, but doubts about positional value persist. Analysts will continue to monitor his performance as the draft approaches.

• 2:30 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Absolutely Not’ — ESPN Analyst Boldly Shoots Down Buzz That Ohio State WR Jeremiah Smith Could Go No. 1 Overall in 2027 NFL Draft