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Toledo cornerback Avery Smith refused to chase the bag this offseason despite seeing interest from tampering suitors. The All-Conference star reportedly rejected six- and seven-figure offers to remain a Rocket.
Smith was never in the transfer portal. He never planned on looking around at other college football programs. That didn’t stop folks from reaching out to gauge interest.
Smith has had an interesting career path. He actually started his career at quarterback. Toledo gave him a chance under center when many wouldn’t following his high school career.
While that path didn’t ultimately work out, he’s appreciative of the opportunity. He’s since agreed to switch positions, a move that’s paid immediate dividends. Smith was one of the defense’s top contributors in 2024. That production put him in the crosshairs of recruiting rivals.
College football tampering is next level.
@tatumtalkshow Avery Smith has been my guy since 10th grade — an All-State QB out of Georgia who bet on himself. He went to Toledo @toledofootball ♬ original sound – Tatum Talk Show
Avery Smith detailed his experience over the offseason after an All-MAC season in which he logged 58 tackles and two interceptions.
“Toledo was loyal to me when no one else was,” he said. “Coming out of high school, I played QB… There wasn’t too many people recruiting me at all, probably like four or five schools. Toledo, they were recruiting me heavy…
“They really believed in me. Switching up on them wouldn’t feel right… I was never trying to chase money… NIL, that’s short-term money.”
Toledo saw Smith’s potential. He’s since proven them right to recruit him. He wasn’t going to bail at the first sign of success. Now, the Rockets will be rewarded for their development.
Smith is far from the only player in the sport to be contacted illegally. South Carolina teammates LaNorris Sellers and Dylan Stewart spoke on similar experiences this summer. Like Smith, they stayed loyal to their initial commitments.
Coaches are getting fed up with the constant tampering. Deion Sanders and Bret Bielema have gone as far as to call out schools by name for their shady recruiting practices. Unfortunately, it’s done little to stop the vultures.
College football tampering is out of control. Many chase the bag when given the opportunity. Smith rejected the enticements to stick with Toledo.