MIAMI GARDENS – As he gets ready for his third year as part of Ohio State’s football program, Jeremiah Smith fully understands what has put him in a position where he’s regarded as the best receiver in the country.

From the time he started playing football and working harder than anyone, there was no doubt that he was going to be special. But special enough to become perhaps the No. 1 selection in the 2027 National Football League Draft?

From the time he arrived in Columbus – almost immediately – he turned heads and proved then Offensive Coordinator Brian Hartline right about his enormous talent.

Whether it was in youth football, at Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace High School or Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna, where he was recognized as the best in the nation – while winning state championships and breaking record – there were people behind the scenes helping this amazing young man reach his potential.

On Thursday, Smith came home as he hosted a football camp at Lester Brown Park – in the heart of a community where he grew up and become the man he is today.

Surrounded by his family, friends and those who have impacted his life, Smith greeted hundreds of youngsters – ages 8-14 for a few hours to embrace those who had the same dreams he had as a kid on these football fields.

Those who have been a big part of his life came out to show their support and witness him giving back, and unlike many who just throw their names on event, actually interact with children and adults.

From photos to autographs and talking with everyone who came out, this dominating football player who caught 163 balls for 2,558 yards and 27 touchdowns in two years had the chance to say thank you to everyone that has behind him since he started playing this sport.

One of the first to notice how special Smith was, as a kid, was Sly Johnson from Premier Athletes. The “Wizard”, who has been around elite prospects since after his playing days, knew almost right away how special he would be.

“The one thing about Jeremiah that you could see almost immediately is that he got it,” Johnson explained. “Away from his talent, his knowledge of the game and position set him apart from the rest and that has stayed with him.”

From former and current teammates to social media influencers and politicians, they were all there to make sure that they were a part of something special. Even Councilwoman Katrina Baskin got into spirit as she warmed up with Smith and showed that she was ready for his homecoming.

Also a special thanks to the City of Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris, Vice Mayor Robert Stephens III, Councilman Reggie Leon, Councilwoman Michelle Powell and Councilwoman Linda Julien for their amazing support.

For nearly two hours, Smith and the many coaches who had been part of his life ran drills, talked about the game and were part of an event that was something everyone had looked forward to.

Coaches who were there from his youth days as well as high school and into college were proud to see this superstar come home and give back. But remember, before he ever played a game in college, he donated $5,000 to his alma mater, Chaminade!

As the players, parents, supporters, friends and family members left the event – there was a reminder that companies like Battle Sports, Adidas and several others stepped up to make this first annual camp a success.

On a personal note: I have covered thousands and thousands of athletes through the decades, and while many have gone on to reach the very top of their sport, it’s young men like Jeremiah Smith and his family that you will always remember and keep in that close circle.

Congratulations to the City of Miami Gardens for running a first-class event along with Chris Circo of Battle Sports, Andrew Gleason from Adidas and Brett Goetz (Founder of SFE – South Florida Express - for showing their support!

PHOTO COURTESY OF IZUBEE CHARLES – BATTLE SPORTS

MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/

For the past 56 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein), Instagram (OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..