Miami Dolphins offensive lineman and former HBCU star Kion Smith is out for the year.
The former Fayetteville State University lineman suffered a season-ending ACL tear in a preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons. He was down for several minutes before being helped off the field.
It is a tough setback for Smith, who hails from Lumberton, North Carolina. He was thought to have a legitimate chance to start this season prior to his injury.
He honed his skills at Fayetteville State University (FSU), where he played as an offensive lineman. Despite the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic, which wiped out his 2020 season, Smith continued to train rigorously, determined to pursue a professional football career.
Smith’s hard work culminated in signing a free-agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons in 2021. While his initial NFL experience involved time on practice squads, Smith remained undeterred. His persistence paid off in 2023 when he earned a spot on the Miami Dolphins’ 53-man roster. Smith made his NFL debut as a left tackle, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Smith’s rise to the NFL is particularly noteworthy considering his background as an HBCU athlete. His success story highlights the talent and potential that exist within HBCU programs, often overlooked in the broader football landscape. Smith serves as an inspiration for young athletes, especially those from smaller programs, demonstrating that determination and hard work can lead to success at the highest level of the sport.
Smith’s story is a reminder that the journey to professional sports is rarely linear, but for those willing to put in the work, the rewards can be tremendous. His future in the NFL looks promising as he continues to “stack days” and strive for excellence on and off the field.
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