Photo: Mercedes-Benz, Ohio State, Jael Rucker for Decked Out

By Jael Rucker: Published: January 16, 2026

LOS ANGELES, CA — Continuing our automotive NIL deep dives, our next subject is Jeremiah Smith. While most sophomores are navigating dorm life, the Ohio State wide receiver is managing a portfolio that can rival the most established NFL veterans. Currently boasting an On3 NIL valuation of $4.2 million, Smith has moved past simple endorsements and into the realm of brand legacy. The latest example? A high-performance partnership with the Mark Wahlberg Auto Group, proving the “Wahlberg Effect” is just as potent in Columbus as it is in Hollywood.
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In This Article

• The $4.2M Portfolio — Why Jeremiah Smith is a 2026 NIL disruptor.
• The Wahlberg Connection — Inside the partnership with Mark Wahlberg Auto Group.
• The Fleet Breakdown — Auditing the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Ram TRX.
• The Red Bull Milestone — The first college athlete on a global can.
• The Future Outlook — Positioning for the 2027 NFL Draft.
  

The $4.2M Portfolio

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As I just mentioned, Jeremiah Smith has a valuation of $4.2 million, giving him the title of third place in the national NIL 100—trailing only Arch Manning and AJ Dybantsa. Let’s make something clear, this isn’t just “influencer” money; it’s an audit of elite production. After leading the Buckeyes to a national title and racking up 1,315 yards as a freshman, Smith has transitioned from a blue-chip recruit to a blue-chip brand. The result?

The Wahlberg Connection

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Smith’s latest flex comes by way of Mark Wahlberg’s Auto Group through a partnership announced officially in May 2025. While many NIL deals are transactional, Smith’s alignment with Wahlberg’s dealership group is strategic. It positions him as the face of luxury and performance in Columbus, a city that treats its Buckeyes like royalty. For Smith, this isn’t just about getting the keys to a new car; it’s about aligning with a global superstar’s business empire.

The Fleet Breakdown

Smith’s freshman year car? A Dodge Durango 392. Through his partnership with Wahlberg’s Auto Group, however, Smith has secured a fleet that mirrors his on-field persona: explosive, dominant and high-performance. Let’s do the fleet breakdown:

• The Crown Jewel: Mercedes-AMG G 63. Smith recently debuted a black-on-black G-Wagon. This vehicle is the ultimate symbol of “status” in 2026, combining a handcrafted 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with a presence that demands attention.
• The Power Play: Ram 1500 TRX. For a 6’3”, 215lb receiver, the TRX is the “Big Body” utility choice. With 702 horsepower, it’s a vehicle designed to take up space and dominate the road—much like Smith does in the red zone.

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The Jeremiah Smith Starter Pack

The Red Bull Milestone

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But that’s not all for Smith, either. Smith also made history in late 2025 as the first collegiate athlete to be featured on a global Red Bull can. The reveal, which took place in Columbus, was orchestrated by fellow Miami native and NFL legend Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, and featured a portrait of Smith making a signature one-handed grab. Plus, there were hidden details like Smith’s “4” jersey number highlighted in red, and a route line tracing his iconic 56-yard championship-sealing reception wraps around the design.

The Future Outlook

The future is bright for Smith, who is a part of the 2027 NFL Draft class. Smith has successfully notched deals with brands like Adidas Football, Lululemon, Nintendo and Epic Games, building the equity for a brand that is already $4.2 million deep before he even signs his first professional contract.

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Author Bio

Jael Rucker is the founder of Decked Out Magazine. She has previously worked as the Associate Commerce Editor at PureWow, focusing on analytics and trends to pitch stories and optimize articles that build and engage their audience. Her work has also been seen in Footwear News and WWD. Prior to 2024, she was the style and pop culture editor at ONE37pm for over three years, contributing numerous product reviews, brand profiles and fashion trend reports, which included interviewing Steph Curry, Snoop Dogg and more.