In the world of college football recruiting, family ties often play a significant role, and Ohio State just landed a commitment that strengthens one of its most exciting legacies. Angelo Smith, the younger brother of Buckeyes star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, has pledged to join Ohio State as part of the 2027 recruiting class. This announcement, made on September 21, 2025, adds another talented prospect from Chaminade-Madonna Prep in Hollywood, Florida—the same high school that produced his older brother.
Background on the Smith Brothers
Jeremiah Smith has been a sensation since arriving in Columbus. As a true freshman in 2024, he quickly established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the country, showcasing elite route-running, hands, and athleticism. Now in his sophomore year during the 2025 season, Jeremiah is on track to be a first-round NFL Draft pick after the 2026 campaign, meaning the brothers are unlikely to overlap on the field at Ohio State. Still, the family connection is a boon for the Buckeyes’ program, which has a history of recruiting siblings—like the Bosas or the Harrisons—to great success.
Angelo, a rising junior in high school, earned his offer from Ohio State in June 2025 after impressing at a Buckeyes camp. He chose the Scarlet and Gray over other suitors, including Miami, Toledo, and Oklahoma State. His commitment marks the third for Ohio State’s 2027 class, joining quarterback Brady Edmunds and wide receiver Jamier Brown.
Scouting Report: What Angelo Brings to the Table
Listed as a three-star safety and athlete (ATH), Angelo is ranked among the top safeties nationally and a top talent in the state of Florida. At 5-foot-10 and 170 pounds, he’s currently undersized for a college safety, but his athletic profile more than compensates. Angelo is an accomplished track athlete, excelling as a sprinter and hurdler, which translates to plus speed and explosiveness on the football field.
Scouts note his instincts in coverage, ability to read plays, and willingness to tackle in run support. While he may not reach the five-star heights of his brother Jeremiah—who was the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2024 class—Angelo has two more high school seasons to add weight and refine his skills. There’s optimism he could develop into a blue-chip talent by the time he enrolls, especially with access to Ohio State’s top-tier strength and conditioning program.
Where Angelo Might Fit in 2027
When Angelo arrives on campus in the fall of 2027 as a true freshman, Ohio State’s secondary will likely look quite different from today. Current standouts like safety Caleb Downs will have moved on to the NFL or exhausted their eligibility. The Buckeyes’ 2026 and 2027 classes will be filling those voids, but Angelo’s versatility as an ATH could give him an edge in earning early playing time.
Projected primarily as a safety, his speed and agility make him a natural fit for the nickel position or even as a boundary corner if he adds bulk. Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia favors aggressive, ball-hawking defenses, and Angelo’s track background could shine in covering slot receivers or patrolling the deep third. If the Buckeyes continue their trend of rotating young talent—much like they did with Jeremiah—Angelo could see snaps in special teams or sub-packages right away.
Of course, competition will be fierce. Ohio State is expected to land several high-profile defensive backs in upcoming classes, and the 2027 group could include edge rushers and linemen that reshape the entire unit. But as a legacy recruit with family ties to one of the program’s recent stars, Angelo will have every opportunity to carve out a role. His development over the next two years will be key—gaining 20-30 pounds while maintaining his speed could turn him into a multi-year starter.
Fan Reactions and the Bigger Picture
The commitment has generated buzz among Buckeyes fans, with social media erupting in excitement celebrating the family addition. This move underscores Ohio State’s dominance in recruiting South Florida talent, a pipeline that’s delivered gems like Jeremiah and now his brother.
In an era where NIL deals and transfer portals dominate headlines, landing a committed legacy like Angelo feels like a throwback to building through relationships and development. Buckeyes faithful can look forward to watching another Smith potentially light up The Shoe—starting in 2027.
What do you think? Will Angelo follow in Jeremiah’s footsteps as a star, or carve his own path in the secondary? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
