2016 National Signing Day Hoosier Profile: OL Ryan Smith

Signing Day 2016: Ryan Smith

Written by: TJ Inman (@TJHoosierHuddle)

Ryan Smith (Cincinnati, OH)
Position: Offensive Guard
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 275
Ranking: 3-star(247 Spots)

One of the strengths of the Indiana football program is the offensive line. The Hoosiers O-Line features depth, size and talent and the coaching staff secured the services of a few more talented offensive line prospects to keep the line stocked for years to come. One of those prospects, Ryan Smith, made it official today as he signed his National Letter of Intent. Smith, a 6’5”, 280-pound prospect, played on both sides of the ball at Archbishop Moeller, one of the preeminent football programs in the Midwest.

Smith committed early to the Hoosiers and didn’t have any other offers before pulling the trigger to play in Bloomington. At the time of his commitment, he said, “they know how to win, they want to win, they’re all motivated. I’m like that, so I can just jump in there and play how they play”. 

His high school highlight tape shows off his impressive length, balance and a high-level of effort. He’s a tough, physical player that is used to having a lot of success while playing against good competition. While he could play on either side of the ball and defensive line appears to be a need for IU, he is projected as an offensive guard that will likely take a redshirt in 2016 (barring injury attrition during the Spring to guys like Jacob Bailey, Wes Martin or Delroy Baker). While he may not have a large impact during the 2016 season, Ryan Smith appears to have a very bright future as part of the next wave on IU’s offensive line.