Name: Trenton Smith
School: Southern Nazarene University
Position: DB
Height: 5-8
Weight: 170
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I set an individual goal of obtaining a school record at Southern Nazarene. During my senior season, I set a career high of 91 tackles which pushed me to achieve a school record for most career solo tackles at 176. I also set a team goal of attaining more wins which was eventually fulfilled as we set a record for most wins in school history within the confines of the NCAA Division II Conference. I ranked within the top 5 of defensive players in total tackles my senior season in the Great American Conference at 91 tackles. In each of my previous seasons, I ranked within the top 18 of defensive players, grossing a career total of 297 tackles.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would advocate for how relentless I am in competing, as my work ethic supports my drive to be the best player possible for my team. They would also say that I am a player that leads through actions both on and off the field. This leadership takes the form of constructive criticism, community service, and the pursuit of academic excellence. From a skills perspective, they would admit that my speed and footwork are my largest attributes and greatest advantage when playing an opponent.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
While studying film, I focus on tendencies. These tendencies are observed in both myself and my opponent. This allows me to improve the efficiency of my technique while also revealing the repetitive movements that are commonly made by specific receivers, running backs, quarterbacks, etc.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
The aspects that separate me from other defensive backs is my speed, footwork, football IQ, play recognition, and versatility. This versatility allows me the ability to transition from strong and free safety to corner and slot corner while continuing to perform at a high level with great productivity.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
After participating in the GAC conference combine, I plan to train in the offseason with NFL vet, Jordan Pugh, in preparation for USFL, XFL, and other pro-league tryouts.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I will bring a leadership that creates sparks of energy that many teams can lack on the field. This energetic presence will be created by my playmaking ability. Off the field, I will make the surrounding community better by contributing to service opportunities. In each aspect I hold myself and teammates accountable by pursuing our best selves as athletes and people.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
What I may lack in size, I make up for with speed, skill, intensity, physicality, and football intelligence. These characteristics are what led me to break the school record for most solo tackles. I refuse complacency by always striving towards greatness and working hard to become a better student of the game. These tools have allowed me to lead Southern Nazarene to a record breaking season of wins in the schools NCAA Division II history. I am persistent as I work for the progression of myself and those around me.