North Carolina Central football had Cam’Rich Smith’s attention from the first time he visited the Durham campus.
“It felt like family, the coaches and the players,” Smith, a talented linebacker/defensive back from Spartanburg High in South Carolina, told NC Football News.
“My first visit there I knew from the jump after talking with Coach (Trei) Oliver this is a man I want to play for. He cared more about me becoming a man before the football aspect of it.”
Smith (5-10, 186) announced his verbal commitment to North Carolina Central over the weekend. The Eagles, who offered earlier this summer, will be getting a hard-nosed player with a penchant for finding the football.
Smith had 122 total tackles a year ago, including 23.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks. He forced three fumbles and pounced on two more. He earned 5A Region 2 defensive player of the year honors.
Movin’ The Chains, a web site devoted to South Carolina high school football, included Smith on its Super 75 Mr. Football Watch List for 2024.
“I can bring versatility from being able to blitz, cover and having a great nose for the football,” Smith said. “Can’t wait to get to NC!”
Smith also was honored as a 2023 South Carolina Academic All-American by High School Football America. To qualify, a player must be a varsity contributor and attain a GPA of 3.7 or higher.
Like most high school players throughout the south, Smith and his teammates will begin regular season play this coming Friday. Spartanburg opens against South Pointe in a non-region game.
- READ MORE: North Carolina Class of 2025 prospects committed to in-state programs
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