Rutgers continues to make its presence felt in SEC country, and this time, it’s paying off in a big way. The Scarlet Knights landed one of their top recruits of the cycle in Jared Smith, a powerful offensive lineman out of Stockbridge, Georgia.
At 6-foot-5, 335 pounds, Smith brings size, versatility, and a mindset that fits right into the Big Ten trenches. With an 89 rating, he’s knocking on the door of four-star status-and he’s not just bringing talent, he’s bringing purpose.
For Smith, putting pen to paper was more than a formality-it was the culmination of years of grind and focus.
“I’m super excited,” Smith said. “One of my biggest dreams and goals are coming true.”
That sense of accomplishment wasn’t just about getting offers or stars next to his name. It was about validation-the kind that comes after long hours in the weight room, film study, and blocking drills that don’t show up on highlight reels. Smith said the best part of the process was “the recognition of all my hard work.”
But like any top-tier recruit navigating the high-stakes world of college football decisions, the process wasn’t without its challenges.
“Choosing where to go was the most stressful part,” Smith admitted. “I had to isolate myself from every outside voice telling me where to go.”
In the end, he leaned on his faith to stay grounded through the ups and downs, crediting his spiritual foundation for helping him stay focused.
So why Rutgers? Why not stay closer to home with programs like Georgia or Auburn knocking?
“It was just where I felt in my heart was the best choice,” Smith said. “Some people didn’t understand why I chose Rutgers over UGA and Auburn, but it truly felt like home. It’s more than just a football program-it’s a family.”
That word-family-carries weight. For Smith, it wasn’t just about facilities or depth charts. It was about the people in the building and the culture head coach Greg Schiano is building in Piscataway.
“I’ve seen in the coaches the type of man I want to be,” Smith said.
That mindset is already translating into his approach to the next level. Smith isn’t just coming in to blend in-he’s aiming to make an impact early.
“My expectations are high for myself,” he said. “I would love to start early, but it’s not the only thing on my mind. It’s about getting better and showing the world why I belong here.”
He’s realistic about where he might land on the depth chart initially-second string or sixth man up-but his goal is clear: start right away. And he’s putting in the work to make that happen.
Smith is listed as an interior lineman, but he’s not locking himself into one position. He’s ready to play wherever the team needs him, whether that’s at guard, center, or even tackle. It’s all about finding the fastest path to the field.
“I’ll play wherever they want me to play,” Smith said.
Looking ahead, he’s already thinking about how he can help Rutgers build on its offensive success from the 2025 season. The Scarlet Knights took a step forward on that side of the ball, and Smith wants to be part of the next leap.
“I have really high hopes,” he said. “I’ve seen what the offense can do and I’m excited to be a part of it. I also have high hopes for Coach Schiano and his way of building the program.”
There’s a quiet confidence in Smith’s words-a belief that he’s not just joining a team, he’s stepping into something bigger. And if his work ethic and mindset are any indication, Rutgers may have just added a foundational piece to its offensive line for years to come.