The University of Kentucky football program is mourning the loss of freshman defensive lineman Nic Smith, whose death was announced Monday.
“Today our hearts are broken,” football coach Will Stein said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Nic’s family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew and loved him. This is a tremendous loss for our program and university community. We will continue to support one another and honor his memory.”
Smith joined the Wildcats as a three-star defensive lineman in the Class of 2025 after starring at Loganville in Georgia. He spent his first season in Lexington as a redshirt freshman and did not appear in a game.
The young lineman was considered a promising addition to Kentucky’s defense as the program looked toward the future.
Smith was the son of Spencer and Kisha Smith and Genedra Smalls. He is survived by his siblings Jackson Roundtree, Killik Smith, Arkeion Smith, Nedra Roundtree, Valencia Murray, and Ariana Smith.
According to the university, Smith was majoring in community and leadership development.
Kentucky did not provide additional details regarding Smith’s death.
The Wildcats community has rallied around Smith’s family and teammates following the tragic news, as players, coaches and supporters remember a young man whose life was cut short far too soon.
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