South Carolina returning major piece to offensive puzzle as tight end Michael Smith inks with Garnet Trust
On Thursday, South Carolina tight end Michael Smith signed a new Name, Image, and Likeness deal with Garnet Trust, thus, cementing his return to the Gamecocks in 2025.
Despite what a glance at the numbers might indicate, the true freshman had a solid debut season for USC. He caught nine passes for 96 yards and one touchdown but earned playing time in a loaded tight end room. His one score, though, was a critical one as he reeled in a LaNorris Sellers pass to reclaim a South Carolina lead in the 4th quarter against Missouri.
Formerly a 4-star recruit from Savannah, Georgia in the class of 2024, Smith is one of the highest-rated tight end prospects ever to sign with the South Carolina football program.
Next fall, Smith will be an offensive key following fellow tight end Josh Simon’s NFL departure. Because of his size (listed at 6’6″ and 255 pounds) and athleticism, fans can expect big things from No. 20.
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In the age of NIL and the transfer portal, player retention efforts are critical as teams fight to remain competitive. This is especially true for a South Carolina squad hoping to build off a strong 9-3 showing in 2024.
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“Kudos to our fanbase, kudos to our administration, kudos to the Garnet Trust for all they’ve done to be able to help us and our guys out in so many ways,” Beamer said of South Carolina’s efforts in player retention last year. “This program is about relationships, honesty, and trust, and having conversations with guys, and building relationships throughout the season. Guys have expressed to us that they want to be (here).”
“I think retaining our current roster is the most important thing,” added Darren Uscher, South Carolina football’s Director of Player Personnel and Recruiting, during a recent appearance on GC Live.
Smith’s return is crucial as he seems poised to be an impact starter as a true sophomore in 2025.
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Michael Smith Bio
True freshman tight end… joined the squad in the summer… has the physical attributes to potentially see early action as he makes the transition to Division I football.
HIGH SCHOOL
Tight end who graduated from Savannah (Ga.) Calvary Day School in 2024… led the Cavaliers to a 13-1 record and a spot in the Class 3A state semifinals as a senior… caught 28 passes for 638 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2023… as a junior, in 2022 caught 24 passes for 601 yards and 12 TDs… helped the Cavaliers go 11-1 and make the quarterfinals of Georgia’s AAA playoffs… was a two-way player as a sophomore in 2021… earned Region 3-A Private first-team honors as a tight end… caught 42 passes for 684 yards and nine touchdowns… helped Calvary Day post a 12-1 record while making the playoffs… also played basketball… was on the Calvary Day squad that won a regional title his sophomore season.
PERSONAL
Michael A. Smith was born Nov. 7, 2005… is a sport and entertainment management major.
