4-star DB Sylvester Smith's mind is made up

It started early for Sylvester Smith.

The safety out of Munford (Ala.) picked up his first offers during his freshman year. Over 30 schools have offered the 5-foot-11, 192-pound four-star and he is now ready to announce his commitment.

On April 26 at 3pm ET, Smith, along with family, coaches, and trainer, will have a ceremony at Munford High to reveal his decision.

Auburn, Georgia, LSU, Miami, Oregon, and Tennessee are the finalists. He knows the hat he will put on.

“My mind is made up,” Sylvester told On3. “I thought hard about these schools and it really came down to about three of them. I had some long nights and it was a true process, but I prayed to God about it, and I made my decision about two weeks ago.

“It came down to where I can go fight and compete with great guys that want it like me. The relationships with coaches and who I feel can develop me for the next level was big too.

“I feel good about my decision and I am ready to let everyone know soon.”

It has been a long journey. Going through COVID-19, playing through an injury last year, and seeing many coaching changes did not make it easy for Smith. The No. 195 prospect in the On3 Consensus made it to the end though.

“It started early and it was fun at first, but it got a lot harder. I wanted it, and I am blessed to have it happen to me, but over time, it got more stressful, and it got more difficult to handle.

“Now, to commit to one school is one of the hardest things I have ever done. I built so many bonds with coaches and I have to tell them no. That is so tough to do.

“I know I have made the right decision though.”

Committing to this school is not just for now, but for the next four to five years. Smith plans to stick with his decision.

“This decision was big for me because I am figuring out where I want to be 3-4 years after high school,” Smith said. “I plan on staying there. There is no portal for me. I want to go there, stay there, fight with my brothers, and call it home.

“It took me some time, but I found that place.”