Texas Longhorns linebacker Smith—referred to in multiple breaking reports prior to an official team announcement—has been dismissed from the program, leaving a significant depth void in the team’s front seven according to multiple outlet confirmations. Head coach Steve Sarkisian previously noted that Smith had been practicing well before an illness caused him to drop weight.
Recruiting Background and Freshman Contributions
Smith arrived in Austin as a consensus four-star prospect, ranked as the No. 350 player nationally and the No. 27 linebacker in the 247Sports Composite rankings. He entered the 2024 class as a late addition for Texas after flipping from Texas A&M during the early signing period.
During his freshman campaign, Smith carved out an immediate role on three special teams units while appearing in all 16 games. He recorded 16 total tackles, including eight solo stops, 1.5 tackles for loss, a half sack, and a notable interception during a blowout victory over Florida.
Sophomore Breakout Performance
As a sophomore, Smith expanded his defensive footprint significantly, logging 450 snaps across 12 games. That workload included his first career start during the Citrus Bowl win over Michigan, where he seized an opportunity created when starters Anthony Hill Jr. and Liona Lefau opted out.
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Against the Wolverines, Smith delivered a breakout performance by leading the team with nine total tackles—eight of them solo—along with one tackle for a loss of three yards and a quarterback hurry. He also secured both of his interceptions in that matchup, capping a sophomore season where his 60 total tackles ranked fifth on the team, accompanied by 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Did you know? Smith earned his first career start in the Citrus Bowl against Michigan, stepping up after upperclassmen opt-outs to record a team-high nine tackles and two interceptions.
Roster Adjustments and Linebacker Depth
While Smith appeared poised to compete for a starting role heading into the season, Texas fortified its front seven through the NCAA transfer portal by adding former Pitt standout Rasheem Biles and steady Florida State contributor Justin Cryer.
With Smith now out of the picture, the Longhorns must rely on alternative pieces to stabilize the linebacker rotation. Michigan State transfer Darius Snow brings extensive experience from six seasons with the Spartans, while high-upside freshmen Tyler Atkinson and Kosi Okpala provide additional developmental depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Smith dismissed from the Texas Longhorns?
Multiple outlets broke the news of his dismissal prior to an official release from the university, which termed the departure a dismissal from the team.
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What were Smith’s stats during his sophomore season at Texas?
Smith played 450 snaps across 12 games, recording 60 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and two interceptions.
Who is expected to fill the depth void left by Smith?
Texas features returning portal additions Rasheem Biles and Justin Cryer, experienced transfer Darius Snow, and incoming freshmen Tyler Atkinson and Kosi Okpala in the linebacker mix.
What do you think about the latest changes to the Longhorns’ linebacker corps? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and explore our other college football coverage for more roster updates.