Details on two new USF commitments: Bulls land Peach State defender and top JuCo O-lineman

It’s been hectic on the recruiting trail for the past few weeks for the South Florida Bulls football program, as Alex Golesh and Co. add new prospects to their 2025 class but have seen others decommit.

USF’s most recent high school pledge (expect more to come soon) came from Kennesaw (Ga.) Harrison’s Christian Smith, who stands at 6-3, 230 pounds. He is expected to play the outside linebacker position in Tampa.

Smith had a tremendous 11-game senior season, posting 68 tackles (8 for loss), 4 sacks, 1 interception, 1 pass break up and 4 forced fumbles. The Bulls noticed him in the fall and offered a scholarship to him Oct. 29. USF hosted him for the Navy game Nov. 9, and he announced his pledge to the Bulls Nov. 14 over the likes of Kennesaw State, Army, Utah State and others.

“My decision to commit to the University of South Florida was driven by the program’s strong commitment to player development, the opportunity to compete at a high level and the culture of excellence within the football program,” Smith told On3. “I believe the coaching staff and resources available will allow me to maximize my potential both on and off the field. Additionally, the campus environment and the sense of community I felt during my visit made me feel at home.”

Smith was getting looks and had a couple offers going into his senior season, but it wasn’t until the past couple months that things started to pick up for him.

“The recruiting process was honestly a wild ride,” he added. “It started out with a few schools showing interest, and as time went on, more offers came in. I took my time talking with different coaches, visiting campuses and really just trying to figure out where I’d fit best.

“But when I visited USF, it all clicked. The coaches were genuine, and I felt like they really believed in me and my potential. The vibe on campus and the direction the program is heading just felt right. So, after talking it over with my family, I knew USF was where I wanted to be.”

His relationships with the USF coaches played a big role in his decision to pick the Bulls. He thinks highly of Golesh, outside linebackers coach Chad Creamer and the rest of the staff.

“These past few weeks, they were constantly checking in, making sure I was good and answering any questions I had,” said Smith. “That level of trust and support definitely made a big difference. I felt like they truly believed in my abilities and had a plan for how I could contribute to the program.”

Smith is back in Tampa this weekend to see the Bulls take on Tulsa. With a 5-5 record, knocking off the Golden Hurricane on Saturday is crucial for USF. It would give USF bowl eligibility for a second straight season. He’s excited to be back in town, and he’s fired up to sign with the Bulls in a couple weeks and get to work in the fall.

“I’m a hardworking, all-in type of player,” he said. “On the field, I bring a lot of energy and passion. I’m versatile and love making big plays, but I’m also about doing the little things right. Off the field, I’m an honest, down-to-earth guy who’s all about friends, family and being a good teammate.

“I’m excited to be a part of the Tampa community, and I can’t wait to represent USF. I’m ready to put in the work and help this program keep moving forward.”

Bulls add top JuCo offensive lineman

USF wants help right away on the offensive line, and it added a big one Nov. 15.

Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College’s Khalil Walker announced his commitment to the Bulls over Morgan State, North Texas, South Alabama, Utah State, New Mexico, Akron and others.

On3 ranks Walker as the No. 31 overall player and No.3 interior offensive lineman in its junior college rankings. Walker stands at 6-5, 310 pounds and could play anywhere on the Bulls’ offensive line.

He played his high school ball at Canton (Ohio) McKinley, graduating in the 2022 class.

Walker will graduate with his associates degree from Coffeyville in December and will come to USF with three years of eligibility remaining. He’s already used his redshirt season.