BREAKING NEWS: Ohio state buckeyes Legend Jeremiah Smith Returns as Chief football officer (CFO) In a monumental announcement Ohio state buckeyes family has officially declared that Jeremiah Smith the legendary left-handed and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as the chief football Officer Vs..……. view more

In a monumental announcement that has sent shockwaves of excitement through Buckeye Nation, the Ohio State Buckeyes have officially confirmed that legendary wide receiver **Jeremiah Smith** will return to the program in 2025 — this time, not as a player, but as the **Chief Football Officer (CFO)**.

Smith, the left-handed phenom and one of the most electrifying talents to ever wear scarlet and gray, will now take the reins in a front-office leadership role designed to bridge the gap between players, coaches, alumni, and administration. The newly created position of CFO signals a bold and modern approach to collegiate football operations.

> “Jeremiah is more than just a former player — he’s a symbol of excellence, discipline, and leadership,” said Athletic Director Gene Smith. “Having him back in this capacity ensures our football culture remains as elite off the field as it is on it.”

### A Storied Legacy Comes Full Circle

Jeremiah Smith, widely regarded as one of the most dominant receivers in Ohio State history, carved his name into the record books with his explosive speed, unmatched route-running, and clutch performances in rivalry games and national playoff runs. His career included multiple All-American honors, a Biletnikoff Award nomination, and a leadership presence that extended far beyond the field.

Now, he returns to Columbus not just as a legend, but as a leader poised to shape the future of the program he helped define.

### What Does a Chief Football Officer Do?

While details of the role are still emerging, sources within the athletic department have described the CFO position as a hybrid of executive oversight, player development strategy, and alumni relations. Smith will work closely with Head Coach Ryan Day and the football operations team to enhance recruiting, culture-building, and player mentorship.

> “This is personal,” said Smith in a brief statement. “Ohio State made me the man I am today. It’s time to give back in the biggest way I know how — by building champions on and off the field.”

### Buckeye Nation Reacts

Social media erupted within minutes of the announcement, with fans, former teammates, and current players expressing their excitement about the return of a Buckeye icon.

* “He was *that guy* when I came in. Now he’s leading the charge? Let’s go!” tweeted current wide receiver Malik Hartwell.

* “A legend returns. Buckeyes just got even stronger,” posted former OSU QB and NFL star CJ Stroud.

### What’s Next?

Smith is expected to officially assume his role at the start of the 2025 offseason and will be introduced at a press conference later this week. Rumors are already swirling about potential innovations he’ll bring to the team, including NIL mentorship programs, alumni-player mentorship pipelines, and enhanced recruiting strategies targeting the nation’s top high school talent.

As the Buckeyes gear up for another championship run, the return of Jeremiah Smith marks a new era — one that blends tradition, innovation, and a whole lot of Buckeye pride.