Clayton High’s Aiden Smalls, one of the top quarterbacks in North Carolina, will join former Davidson coach Scott Abell’s 2026 recruiting class at Rice University.
Smalls announced his decision on Friday, choosing the Owls and Abell’s unique shotgun triple-option offense over multiple in-state and out-of-state suitors.
A dual-threat athlete, Smalls threw for 1,948 yards and 24 touchdowns as a junior, leading the Comets to a 10-2 record and one playoff triumph. He also rushed for 1,006 yards with 12 more scores. He threw only seven interceptions.
NC State had been high on his list. Duke, East Carolina and Appalachian State also offered in-state. Several schools were looking at Smalls as an all-purpose athlete, but Rice made it clear they are recruiting him to play quarterback.
“This journey has meant everything to me,” Smalls posted on his X account. “Since I first picked up a football, I’ve dreamed of leading a team – not just with my arm and legs, but with my heart. This moment is the result of years of sacrifice, faith and belief – from my family, my coaches and everyone who’s walked this path with me. Thank you for never letting me forget who I am and what I am capable of. It’s time to get to work. Let’s go build something special in Houston. Go Owls!”
Abell, who coached at Davidson from 2018-24, built the Wildcats into a consistent FCS conference and playoff contender. Davidson led the FCS in rushing yards-per-game several seasons. Abell’s unique offense thrives with a smart, multi-dimensional quarterback at the helm – a role Smalls seems well suited for.
🔥 Notable Stats and Honors
🏆 Greater Neuse River Conference Offensive Player of the Year
🏆 North Carolina Underclassmen of the Year
🏈 Three-time All-Conference selection
🏈 All-State Top 22 (twice)
📰 919 Player of the Week (six times)
⭐ Rated 3-star QB by Rivals.com
📊 About Aiden Smalls
🧩 Position: Quarterback
📍 Hometown: Clayton
🎓 High School: Clayton Comets
🧢 Head Coach: Scott Chadwick
📚 GPA: 3.8
📏 Height/Weight: 6-1, 175
🎯 Offers/Interest: Smalls earned a dozen offers, including NC State, Duke, East Carolina, and Appalachian State. According to 247Sports, he also received offers from Boston College, Coastal Carolina, James Madison, Liberty, Troy, Virginia Tech, and Bethune-Cookman.
🔗 More 2026 NC Football Recruiting Coverage
➡️ See where North Carolina’s Class of 2026 prospects have committed — full list HERE.
➡️ Check out which 2026 players from across the country are joining North Carolina college programs — full list HERE.
