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Jeremiah Smith remains the top player on Yahoo Sports’ updated 2027 NFL Draft big board, continuing to separate himself from a talented group of college football prospects. The Ohio State wide receiver was ranked No. 1 by staff writer Nate Tice in the latest evaluation published Saturday, November 7, 2026.
The updated board arrives as the college football regular season enters its home stretch. However, Tice noted that projecting the 2027 class remains difficult because several players, particularly quarterbacks, could return to school, transfer or change their draft plans. For the purposes of the rankings, the prospects are treated as if they will declare.
Jeremiah Smith Holds a Powerful No. 1 Ranking
Smith’s position at the top is built on more than highlight plays. Tice described him as a “force of nature” at wide receiver, praising his production, physical strength and ability to create problems for opposing defenses at every level of the field.
The Ohio State standout combines a powerful frame with explosive movement. His strength allows him to bounce off tackles, while his burst helps him gain separation out of breaks. Once the ball is in his hands, Smith has the acceleration and balance to turn routine receptions into significant gains after the catch.
His route-running profile also makes him especially difficult to defend. Smith can threaten defenses on in-breaking routes, build speed quickly and attack multiple areas of the field. His size and athleticism force opponents to account for him on every snap, creating opportunities for teammates even when he is not the primary target.
Explosive Traits Make Smith a Defensive Nightmare
One of the most important parts of Smith’s evaluation is his ability to alter defensive structure. Tice characterized him as a “gravity-shifter” and a player who changes the mathematical equation for an offense. That assessment reflects how much attention Smith demands from safeties and cornerbacks.
Defenses cannot simply rely on one-on-one coverage. Smith’s combination of size, power, speed and strong route acceleration can force opponents to use safety help or adjust their coverage rules. Those changes can open running lanes and create favorable matchups elsewhere on the field.
Tice compared Smith’s physical influence to Julio Jones, while also suggesting that his lowest reasonable comparison could resemble Josh Gordon. Those are significant comparisons, but the report made clear that Smith’s production and athletic profile have earned that level of discussion.
Top 2027 NFL Draft Prospects Chasing Smith
Notre Dame cornerback Leonard Moore sits at No. 2 and is viewed as one of the best defensive backs in the class. Moore’s length, range, speed and ball skills have made him a difficult matchup for opposing receivers.
South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart is third, followed by LSU offensive tackle Jordan Seaton. Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker rounds out the top five. Mestemaker is one of the biggest surprises on the board because of his limited starting experience, but his arm talent, pocket movement and ability to create throws have pushed him into the elite group.
- No. 1: Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State
- No. 2: Leonard Moore, CB, Notre Dame
- No. 3: Dylan Stewart, EDGE, South Carolina
- No. 4: Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU
- No. 5: Drew Mestemaker, QB, Oklahoma State
Texas quarterback Arch Manning remains inside the top 10 at No. 8. His 2026 campaign has included both impressive flashes and inconsistent stretches, but his size, athleticism, arm strength and willingness to challenge tight windows continue to make him an intriguing prospect.
Other notable names include South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers at No. 19, Oregon quarterback Dante Moore at No. 38 and Miami quarterback Darian Mensah at No. 39. The board also includes several rising defensive prospects, including California safety Kingston Lopa and Mississippi State cornerback Kelley Jones.
Why Smith’s Draft Stock Matters
Smith’s ranking could become one of the most important storylines of the 2027 NFL Draft cycle. Wide receivers with his blend of size, production and explosive playmaking ability are among the most valuable players in modern football.
The evaluation is not a final prediction of draft order. Players still have time to improve, struggle, transfer or return to college. Injuries, postseason performances and the evaluation process will also influence how teams view the class.
For now, though, Smith has established a clear standard. Unless another prospect makes a dramatic move during the remainder of the college season, the Ohio State receiver appears firmly positioned as the player everyone else must chase.
FAQs About Jeremiah Smith and the 2027 NFL Draft
Who is No. 1 on the updated 2027 NFL Draft big board?
Jeremiah Smith, the Ohio State wide receiver, is ranked No. 1 by Yahoo Sports’ Nate Tice.
Why is Jeremiah Smith considered an elite prospect?
Smith combines size, strength, speed, route-running ability and exceptional production. His power after the catch and ability to influence defensive coverage make him a complete offensive weapon.
Who is ranked No. 2 behind Smith?
Notre Dame cornerback Leonard Moore is ranked second. He is praised for his length, range, speed, coverage instincts and ball skills.
Could the 2027 NFL Draft rankings change?
Yes. The rankings remain preliminary because players may return to school, transfer or change their draft decisions. Future games and postseason evaluations could also significantly alter the board.
