Devin Smith – Massillon Tigers Wide Receiver

Devin Smith, a wide receiver from Massillon Ohio, committed to Ohio State recently after receiving scholarship offers from 17 schools across the country. Notre Dame, Penn State, and Michigan State were heavily recruiting the 6’1” wide out when he visited Ohio State for their senior camp and received the Buckeye’s offer. He quickly committed to OSU four days later and became the 2nd receiver of their 2011 recruiting class.

By Steve Patterson

We asked Devin Smith recently about his high school performance, recruiting and selecting Ohio State for his college destination. “I attribute my football success to the hard work I put toward the game.” he told us about what sets him apart on the field and off the field. “Going to Massillon and playing for the tigers has been great.” he also reported.

Last season as a junior he showed what he is capable of doing at the receiver position. “I had 989 yards receiving yards 15 td's last season.” Rated a three star recruit by Rivals.com, he is also ranked the 44th best at his position nationally. Decent rankings but the scholarship offers tell the true story of what college coaches feel he can accomplish at the next level.

Recruiting began heating up over the months of May and June with scholarship offers quickly arriving. He took two visits before making his decision. “I only took two visits, Cincinnati and Ohio State and I liked both places.” He had specific reasons that he selected Ohio State. “I liked OSU because it is a great place to be, has great coaching, and you receive a good education.” he told us.

Growing up in Ohio and watching the Buckeyes on TV didn’t hurt their position in Devin Smith’s recruitment. “Ohio state, Notre Dame, Penn State, and Michigan State were all recruiting me.” he explained about the main colleges showing interest. Yet, the Buckeyes stood out. “The tradition and fan support were the most important.”

College Career

Smith got off to a good start as a freshman in 2011 with Ohio State, playing in 13 games, making 14 receptions for 294 yards and 4 touchdowns. As a sophomore he had 30 receptions for 618 yards and 6 touchdowns. He continued to get more proficient as a junior with 44 receptions for 660 yards and 8 touchdowns. His senior year was something special with Ohio State beating Alabama in the Sugar Bowl and Oregon in National Championship game. He had 931 yards and 12 touchdowns in his final season as a Buckeye.

NFL

The NY Jets drafted him in the second round with the 37th pick. He was rewarded with a $6 million contract over 4 years and a $2.5 million signing bonus. His professional career was plagued by the same knee having a torn ACL in 2015 and again in 2017. The Jets waived Smith in July of 2018 and he become a free agent.