Welcome to our series chronicling the 2024 USF Recruiting Class! This series will breakdown every single recruit that has signed to become a part of Head Coach Alex Golesh’s first full recruiting class. (Having a full year to put a class together.) Help us welcome DE Levi Smiley to the Bulls!
DE Levi Smiley (Purcell Marian – Cincinnati, OH)
Committed to the Bulls on December 9th, Smiley is one of six defensive linemen to commit to the 2024 class. Via Rivals.com, Smiley received offers from Akron, Kent State and Tennessee Martin during his recruitment.
Run the Tape:
Utilized on both sides of the ball at Purcell Marian but will join the Bulls on the defensive line. Big frame who will benefit from a college strength and conditioning program. Quick first step/footwork who can move past slower offensive lineman at the point of attack. Physical player who loves contact. Good hand usage whether as a pass rusher or in the run game. Will not over pursue a play and because of such will rack up tackles at his position.
Mike’s Take:
Levi Smiley has an incredibly high ceiling as a defensive lineman at the collegiate level. The tools and physical traits are there for him to be successful, but I would be naive to think that any offensive/defensive linemen will be an overnight sensation as development is the key to success for both position groups when you play at this level. With the way that the defense rotates through linemen throughout a game, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Smiley come into his own after a year of transitioning his high school game to the Bulls. Welcome to the Bulls Levi!
by Mike Cusimano
Journalist & Recruiting Analyst, SoFloBulls.com | Twitter:Â @micCusiÂ