Mickell Smith III is making the most of his freshman season at Copiah-Lincoln Community College.
The 6-foot-2, 186-pound nickel has earned a starting role and recorded 20 tackles and 0.5 sack so far this season. More importantly, Smith is showing the versatility that college coaches want to see from a defensive back playing his position.
“I feel like I’ve had a strong freshman season so far,” Smith said. “I’m starting at nickel and have been able to make an impact in coverage and against the run. I’m pleased with my start, but I know I can keep improving.”
At nickel, Smith has plenty on his plate.
He has to be comfortable covering in space, playing around the line of scrimmage and coming downhill against the run. His 6-foot-2 frame gives him good size for the position, and he’s becoming more comfortable with each opportunity.
Smith said the biggest adjustment has been getting used to the speed of college football.
“The biggest adjustment has been the speed of the game,” Smith said. “At this level, everybody has talent, so you have to trust your preparation and technique. Playing nickel requires me to be ready for both coverage and run responsibilities on every snap.”
As the season has progressed, Smith has noticed the game beginning to slow down.
“I feel like my ability to recognize plays has improved the most,” Smith said. “I’ve gotten more comfortable understanding what’s happening around me, and that helps me play faster and with more confidence.”
College coaches are beginning to take notice.
Charlotte has offered Smith, giving him an early FBS opportunity. Smith appreciates the offer, but he’s keeping an open mind as his recruitment continues to develop.
“Charlotte has shown interest and offered me, and I’m grateful for that opportunity,” Smith said. “I’m focused on continuing to play well and letting my film speak for itself as recruiting moves forward.”
Smith isn’t looking for just any opportunity, either. Development, playing time and relationships will matter when he eventually decides where he wants to continue his career.
“I want to find a program where I can develop, contribute and build a strong relationship with the coaching staff,” Smith said.
For now, the freshman isn’t looking too far ahead. His goal is to continue producing for Co-Lin and prove he can play consistently at a high level.
“I want to prove that I can sustain my performance and be someone my team can count on every week,” Smith said. “I want to keep making plays, limit mistakes and show that I can compete at the next level.”
And when coaches turn on his film, Smith knows what he wants them to see.
“I want them to see a versatile defensive back who can cover, tackle and make plays around the line of scrimmage,” Smith said. “I want my film to show discipline, effort and confidence in doing my job.”
Smith already has the size, a starting role and early production. Now the recruiting attention is beginning to follow.
And with plenty of football still ahead of him, Smith is giving college coaches a reason to keep watching.
