Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith makes NIL history with Red Bull originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Ohio State star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has made history as the first college athlete to be featured on a Red Bull.
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Smith, who signed an NIL deal with energy drink company last year, was surprised Monday when former NFL wideout Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson unveiled the limited-edition can featuring his image.
The design has Smith snagging a one-handed catch and highlights his athletic abilities. The cans will be sold exclusively in Ohio through December or while supplies last, Red Bull said in a press release.
At $4.2 million, Smith’s On3 NIL Valuation is among the highest in college athletics. He ranks third overall on On3 NIL 100. He joins an impressive list of college football players sponsored by Red Bull, including Arch Manning and DJ Lagway.
The partnership with Red Bull adds to Smith’s extensive list of NIL deals, including becoming an Adidas athlete and being featured on the cover for EA Sports’ College Football 26.
Through seven games this season, Smith has 49 receptions for 602 yards and seven touchdowns, plus a rushing score for the Buckeyes.
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Smith’s rise has mirrored Ohio State’s tradition of elite receiver development. The former five-star recruit from Florida said his connection with receivers coach Brian Hartline and the Buckeyes’ track record of producing first-round NFL wideouts played key roles in his commitment. He chose Ohio State over heavy interest from Miami, calling it “the best fit for my long-term goals.”
