Jeremiah Smith and Julian Sayin named ESPN Preseason All-Americans

Ohio State football players Jeremiah Smith and Julian Sayin have been named to the ESPN Preseason All-America first team for the 2026 season.

Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith enters the season following a record-breaking collegiate start, totaling 2,558 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns over his first two seasons. Pro Football Hall of Famer Cris Carter has publicly predicted Smith’s future Hall of Fame potential, comparing his impact to legendary receivers such as Calvin Johnson, Julio Jones, and Larry Fitzgerald. Carter is currently working with Smith to improve his yards after catch (YAC) ability.

Quarterback Julian Sayin also received first-team honors. Sayin holds several program records, including a 77.0 percent completion rate in 2025, which is a Big Ten record. During his previous season, he threw for 3,610 yards and 32 touchdowns, leading the nation in completion percentage and becoming a Heisman Trophy finalist.