Key Wide Receivers to Watch in the 2025-26 College Football SeasonBy: Shahid Evans

Photo Creditbility;Samantha Madar

Jeremiah Smith returns to showcase his skills after a stellar true freshman season leading the Ohio State Buckeyes' wide receiver group. Last year, Smith recorded 76 receptions for 1,315 yards, making him a significant weapon as the Ohio State wide receiver room continues to develop. Smith is big, fast, and athletic, displaying impressive acrobatics that allowed him to make tough catches during the CRB playoffs. Defenses should be wary of leaving him isolated on the field.

Antonio Williams from Clemson is poised to have a major impact this season for the Tigers. In the previous season, he tallied 75 receptions for 904 yards and 11 touchdowns. As Clemson's leading receiver, he is known for his quickness, shiftiness, and playmaking ability. Williams is ready to replicate or even exceed his impressive performance from 2024.

Ryan Williams, another standout true freshman, had an excellent season with Alabama last year, recording 48 receptions for 805 yards and 8 touchdowns. He played a crucial role for the Crimson Tide, showcasing his speed and deep-threat ability. Like Smith, he should not be left on an island, as he can excel both on the outside and in the slot.

Will Pauling, who transferred from the University of Wisconsin to the University of Notre Dame, is expected to be a key addition. Despite dealing with injuries last season, he managed 74 catches for 837 yards in 2023. Pauling possesses exceptional speed and a high football IQ, making him a significant asset for Notre Dame’s offense alongside Jeremiah Love (RB), Jaden Greathouse (WR), Jordan Faison (WR), and Mitchell Evans (TE). He is versatile and can play both outside and, in the slot, setting him up for a productive season.

Makai Lemon, a wide receiver from USC, is known for his quickness and versatility to play both the slot and outside positions. Last season, he had 52 receptions for 764 yards and 3 touchdowns. As an upcoming junior, Lemon is expected to become increasingly impactful for USC. His football intelligence, agility, and speed will open the playbook for the Trojans in the Big Ten.

Javonnie Gibson has transferred from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff to the University of Oklahoma Sooners. As the leading wide receiver in the FCS with 70 catches for 1,215 yards last season, Gibson is another player to watch. Although he faced an injury during spring practice, he anticipates returning soon and performed well with the Sooners during the spring.

Carnell Tate, another wide receiver for the Buckeyes, is ready to make an impact alongside Jeremiah Smith. Tate contributed significantly to the Buckeyes' offense, recording 52 receptions for 733 yards. Now an upcoming junior, he is expected to play a vital role as more receivers emerge in the Buckeyes' lineup. With his speed, strength, and height, Tate will continue to make a difference for Ohio State, especially alongside Smith.