Chase Smith Returns to Miami with Eyes on Starting Role and Another Title Run
It’s been a long road back for Chase Smith, but the veteran linebacker isn’t done just yet. After battling through multiple injury-riddled seasons, Smith is returning to the Miami Hurricanes for one last shot-not just at a starting job, but at another national title.
Smith’s return adds another layer of experience to a Hurricanes defense that was already one of the most resilient units in college football last season. Miami’s championship run was built on timely stops, physical front-seven play, and a next-man-up mentality. Now, with several key defenders off to the NFL, Smith steps into a pivotal moment-one where his leadership and production could help anchor a defense in transition.
Let’s talk about what’s changing and what’s staying the same.
The Departures: Big Shoes to Fill
The Hurricanes are saying goodbye to some serious defensive firepower. Edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor, linebacker Wesley Bissainthe, and defensive lineman David Blay Jr. are all headed to the NFL.
That’s a lot of talent-and a lot of snaps-walking out the door. Bissainthe, in particular, leaves a vacancy at linebacker that Smith could slide into.
The Returners: Smith and Toure Bring Veteran Presence
Smith isn’t coming back alone. Fellow linebacker Mohamed Toure is also returning after being granted an extra year of eligibility-his second comeback after season-ending injuries in 2022 and 2024.
These two veterans bring not just experience, but resilience. They’ve been through the grind, they’ve rehabbed, and now they’re ready to lead.
Smith, now 23, played in all 16 games last season, though he didn’t start. Still, he made his presence felt-31 total tackles, including 15 solo stops, two passes defended, two breakups, and a pair of fumble recoveries. Those numbers may not jump off the page, but they show a player who found ways to contribute, even without a starting role.
What makes Smith’s return even more significant is the context. Injuries limited him to just eight games combined in 2022 and 2023.
But that limited action also gave him another year of eligibility, and he’s making the most of it. For a former four-star recruit, this final season could be the one where everything comes together.
The Opportunity: A Clear Path to Start
With Bissainthe off to the league and Raul Aguirre Jr. transferring to NC State, the door is wide open for Smith to step into a full-time starting role. Aguirre’s departure also reunites him with former Miami wideouts Joshisa “Jojo” Trader and Chance Robinson in Raleigh, but it leaves Miami’s linebacker room a little thinner.
That’s where Smith and Toure come in. Alongside them, expect Cam Pruitt to see more action in the rotation.
Pruitt played in 15 games last season, tallying 10 total tackles and flashing some upside with 0.5 tackles for loss and a half sack. If he continues to develop, Miami could have a solid three-man rotation at linebacker.
Reloading the Front Seven
Miami didn’t just sit back and hope for internal growth-they hit the transfer portal hard. The additions of Keona Davis (Nebraska) and Damon Wilson II (Missouri) bring size and athleticism to the front seven, which should help offset the loss of Bain and Mesidor. These aren’t just depth pieces-they’re plug-and-play guys who can make an immediate impact.
A Defense Ready to Raise the Bar
Last season’s defense was consistent, tough, and opportunistic. This year’s version might be even better. With Smith and Toure back, a retooled front seven, and young players like Pruitt stepping up, there’s a strong foundation in place.
And let’s not forget the offensive firepower coming in. Quarterback Darian Mensah and wide receiver Cooper Barkate, both formerly with Duke, bring proven production and big-game experience. That balance on both sides of the ball could make Miami not just ACC favorites-but legitimate threats to repeat as national champions.
For Smith, this final season is about more than just football-it’s about finishing what he started. After years of setbacks, he’s back in the mix, healthy, and hungry. And if he can lock down that starting role, don’t be surprised if he becomes one of the heartbeat players on a defense with championship aspirations.