Gregory Smith
DE (ATH), 6'3, 240 LBS
Perris, California (Citrus Hill HS)
Overview:
Two-way playmaker for one of California's most successful programs. Excelled at tight end, fullback and defensive end. Will begin his Sun Devil career at defensive end. An explosive athlete with the ability to impact a game from a variety of positions.
Accolades:
Rated as the No. 60 tight end prospect in the nation by Scout.com. Ranked as the No. 85 inside linebacker recruit by rivals.com.
High School Career
Coached by Doug Dubois at Citrus Hill High School.
Senior Year, 2008
Caught 33 passes for 712 yards (21.6) with 12 TD and rushed for 108 yards on only 4 carries with 2 TD.
Junior Year, 2007
Caught 8 passes for 116 yards with 5 TD as a junior. Added 11 sacks, 3 FR, and 3 blocked punts.
Sophomore Year, 2006
Totaled 314 yards on 14 catches (22.4 avg) with 4 TD as a sophomore. Added 54 tackles (44 solo) and 14 sacks.
Freshman Year, 2005
Posted 60 tackles, 1 FR, 1 blocked field goal.
The Decision
Chose ASU over Fresno State, New Mexico, UTEP and Washington. Verbally committed to the Sun Devils on Jan. 20, 2009, shortly after his official visit to ASU. "The environment at ASU and how they treated me were really what stood out to me," says Smith.
The Verdict
Not much is known about him since most outlets were not sure how to look at him. He played LB his freshman year, played TE and DE his sophomore year, less TE and more DE his junior year, then more TE, FB, and not much defense his senior year. So what is he? Athletic, and looks to play DE at ASU, a position where he totaled 25 sacks in two seasons in HS. 6'3, 240 puts him somewhat undersized at the moment, but look for him to add around 15-20 pounds. Defintiely a speed edge rusher at this point, might get some situational playtime.