In a major shakeup on the recruiting trail, Josh Smith, a class of 2025 three-star linebacker from Dutch Fork High School in Irmo, South Carolina, has made a stunning decision to decommit from the University of South Carolina and instead commit to Ole Miss. This decision, which came after months of his verbal pledge to the Gamecocks, has left fans and analysts buzzing, especially given Smith’s impressive performances at Dutch Fork and the potential he brings to the defensive side of the ball. In a recruiting landscape that’s always evolving, this move underscores just how unpredictable the journey can be for top prospects—and how influential coaching relationships, program fit, and future opportunities can be in shaping these decisions.
Josh Smith, who stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs in at around 225 pounds, is widely regarded as one of the most promising linebackers in the class of 2025. Known for his ability to read plays, his explosiveness off the line, and his strong tackling skills, Smith had initially attracted interest from several major programs across the country. South Carolina emerged as a frontrunner early in his recruitment, with Smith verbally committing to the Gamecocks, citing proximity to home and strong ties with the coaching staff. His commitment was seen as a significant win for South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, who has been working tirelessly to secure top in-state talent and fortify the Gamecocks’ defense for the coming seasons.
However, as the recruiting process continued, Smith’s interest in other programs began to grow. Reports indicated that he had been in contact with multiple SEC schools, each presenting unique opportunities for him to showcase his skills. In particular, Ole Miss and NC State showed persistent interest, with the Rebels standing out for the program’s trajectory under head coach Lane Kiffin and the appeal of playing in the highly competitive SEC West. Smith took several unofficial visits to other campuses to assess his options, and each experience helped shape his final decision.
Smith’s decision to commit to Ole Miss reflects a growing trend among recruits seeking programs where they can make an immediate impact and experience significant growth under well-established coaching staffs. At Ole Miss, Smith has found both. The Rebels have been building a formidable defensive unit under defensive coordinator Pete Golding, and the program’s recent success in recruiting top defensive talent suggests a clear pathway for Smith to step in and contribute early in his collegiate career.
One key factor in Smith’s decision appears to be Ole Miss’s commitment to enhancing its defensive reputation, which has historically lagged behind its offensive prowess. The opportunity to join a rising defensive powerhouse was appealing for Smith, who sees himself as an integral part of the Rebels’ future success. Additionally, head coach Lane Kiffin’s recruiting approach, which emphasizes relationship-building and a “family-first” culture, resonated deeply with Smith and his family, creating an environment where he felt at home.
“From the moment I stepped onto Ole Miss’s campus, I felt something special,” Smith said in a statement. “The coaches believe in my potential and have laid out a clear plan for my development. I want to be part of something special, and I believe we have a real chance to build a championship-caliber defense at Ole Miss.”
Smith’s decommitment from South Carolina comes as a blow to the Gamecocks, who have been actively working to secure in-state talent. The loss of a player of Smith’s caliber, especially one who had previously pledged his commitment, underscores the competitive nature of recruiting in the SEC. South Carolina’s coaching staff had invested considerable time and resources into recruiting Smith, seeing him as a potential anchor for their defense. Shane Beamer, who had personally led the recruitment of Smith, expressed his disappointment but remained supportive of the young athlete’s choice to follow his heart.
“This is part of the game,” a source close to the South Carolina staff said. “We wish Josh the best at Ole Miss, and we’re proud of the time he spent considering what it would mean to be a Gamecock. It’s important for every recruit to find the right fit, and we’ll continue working hard to bring in players who are committed to our vision.”
For NC State, missing out on Smith was also a setback. While the Wolfpack remain competitive in the ACC and have built a solid defense, the allure of the SEC and the visibility Ole Miss offers in a major conference were factors difficult to compete with. NC State’s coaches had reportedly been in close contact with Smith, and while they came close to securing him, the SEC’s draw ultimately tipped the scales.
Adding Josh Smith to the 2025 recruiting class is a major win for Ole Miss. The Rebels are aiming to build a defense that can compete at the highest levels of college football, and securing a high-potential linebacker like Smith aligns with their larger strategy. As Ole Miss continues to attract talent from across the country, Smith’s commitment could have a ripple effect, encouraging other top defensive prospects to view the program as a destination for growth and success.
Smith’s commitment also highlights the recruiting prowess of Lane Kiffin and his staff. Known for his offensive expertise, Kiffin has increasingly turned his focus to recruiting top defensive talent, recognizing that a balanced, well-rounded team is essential for competing in the SEC West. The addition of Smith sends a clear message that Ole Miss is serious about elevating its defense and is willing to go head-to-head with other SEC powerhouses to do so.
Josh Smith’s decision to flip his commitment from South Carolina to Ole Miss is a reminder of how dynamic the recruiting process can be. It reflects the growing appeal of Ole Miss as a football program, the effectiveness of Lane Kiffin’s recruiting approach, and the fierce competition among SEC schools for top talent. For Smith, the choice to join the Rebels represents an opportunity to make a name for himself on one of college football’s biggest stages.
As he prepares for his future in Oxford, Smith will undoubtedly be one to watch. With his skill set and potential, he could become a cornerstone of the Ole Miss defense, helping the Rebels continue their rise in the SEC. For now, his commitment signals a promising future for Ole Miss, as they look to build a balanced team capable of contending with the best in the nation.