Austin Smith: From Setbacks to Starting DE for Collins Hill Eagles
Collins Hill's Austin Smith is a force to be reckoned with on the edge, boasting a 12-sack season in 2024 as a junior. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound defensive end's impressive numbers are all the more remarkable given his journey to the starting role. Smith suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the 2023 opener, forcing him to watch from the sidelines as his team navigated the 7A classification. Undeterred, Smith dedicated himself to rehabilitation and weightlifting, eventually earning a spot in the Eagles' starting lineup by his junior year. Scouts are now eyeing Smith's ability to translate his raw power into a polished pass-rushing technique, as well as his potential to anchor the Collins Hill defense in the 2026 season. With his size, speed, and work ethic, Smith is poised to make a significant impact in the highly competitive 7A classification.