Jeremiah Smith Became 2027 NFL Draft Betting Favorite
The wide receiver surpassed Arch Manning in draft odds following a standout performance for Ohio State.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football
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Jeremiah Smith has claimed the top spot in betting odds for the 2027 NFL draft, overtaking quarterback Arch Manning. Smith now holds +300 odds to be selected first overall.
Why it matters
The shift highlights a potential deviation from historical draft trends where quarterbacks traditionally dominate the top selection. No wide receiver has been chosen first overall since 1996.
Smith currently carries +300 betting odds for the top pick after recording four receptions for 93 yards and two touchdowns against Maryland. Quarterback CJ Carr, holding +380 odds, recently completed 14 of 20 passes for 181 yards and three touchdowns against Stanford.
The players
Jeremiah Smith
He is an Ohio State wide receiver who has emerged as the current betting favorite to be the first selection in the 2027 NFL draft.
Arch Manning
He is a Texas quarterback who previously held the top spot in betting odds for the 2027 NFL draft.
CJ Carr
He is a Notre Dame quarterback who remains a contender for the top pick with +380 betting odds.
The details
Smith solidified his draft standing with a productive outing for Ohio State, while CJ Carr bolstered his position with a strong showing for Notre Dame. Other notable candidates include Trinidad Chambliss at +600, Drew Mestemaker at +650, Darian Mensah at +750, and Dante Moore at +1200.
Timeline
1996: Keyshawn Johnson was the last wide receiver taken first overall.
October 10, 2026: Jeremiah Smith and CJ Carr played games impacting their respective draft odds.
2027: The NFL draft is scheduled to take place.
Season Trajectory
Jeremiah Smith's rise marks a significant potential shift in the historical draft hierarchy that has favored signal-callers for decades. His performance challenges the long-standing precedent set by the 1996 selection of Keyshawn Johnson as the last receiver taken at number one.
Fantasy players should monitor Smith's receiving volume as his +300 odds suggest a high-floor prospect for future drafts. With CJ Carr recording 41 rushing yards in his latest win, his dual-threat capability serves as a critical variable for those tracking quarterback draft stock.
The takeaway
The draft betting landscape is currently witnessing a rare surge of interest in wide receiver talent over traditional quarterback dominance. Enthusiasts should note that these odds are highly dynamic and fluctuate based on weekly individual performances.
Further reading
For more on evolving league projections, visit Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NBC Sports.
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