Jaden Smith signs NLI with Kentucky, can 'play at multiple levels on defense.'

Jaden Smith‘s commitment to Kentucky is now official. Head coach Mark Stoops announced on Wednesday that Smith has signed his National Letter of Intent with the Wildcats.

“Jaden is very athletic, with the ability to play at multiple levels on defense,” Stoops said in UK’s press release. “He’s an impact player and we are excited for the opportunity to add him to this dynamic class.”

Smith was a surprise addition to Stoops’ 2024 recruiting class. He initially committed to defending champion Michigan back in June, choosing the Wolverines over a group of finalists that also included Kentucky. Smith then signed with Michigan in December but was released from his NLI earlier this month after head coach Jim Harbaugh left for the NFL.

A week later, the 6-foot-3, 200-pounder out of Charlotte, NC landed at Kentucky. He’s considered a four-star recruit and the No. 343 overall senior prospect per the On3 Industry Ranking.

Welcome to #BBN, @jadensmith200!#RecruitAndDevelop x #NSD24 📰🔗 https://t.co/rFI6WQgufH pic.twitter.com/kxUllwz3nx

— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) February 21, 2024

Most recruiting services list Smith as a linebacker, but he’s being tabbed as an athlete by Kentucky. Stoops was intentional with his words when he said that Smith has the ability to “play at multiple levels on defense.” He’s a significant late pickup for Kentucky, which is up to 23 high school commits, good enough for the 25th-best class in the country, according to On3.

As a high school senior at West Charlotte, Smith racked up 91 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 14 quarterback hurries, 13 pass breakups, two fumble recoveries, one interception and two defensive touchdowns. He also blocked three punts and two field goals on special teams. Smith took home the 2023 Queen City 3A/4A Defensive Player of the Year award at linebacker by The Charlotte Observer.

For more on what Smith will bring to Kentucky, check out Adam Luckett’s KSR Film Room breakdown here.