Trey Smith’s earliest fascination with Alabama came from personal ties. As he explained, his kindergarten teacher’s son was an equipment manager at Alabama. This connection gave him a unique peek behind the scenes—his first taste of SEC football occurred in an Alabama locker room on gameday
“I always grew up a Bama fan … My favorite color’s red. I love elephants. Bama was one of the top schools. Nick Saban has won all these championships,” he later shared on the New Heights podcast hosted by the Kelce brothers
That kid who saw the Crimson Tide’s locker room became a coveted five-star recruit, widely regarded as the #1 overall high school player in ESPN’s Class of 2017 .
By age 14, Smith was already being courted—his first scholarship offer came from Ole Miss, followed by attention from powerhouses like Alabama, Clemson, Ohio State, and Tennessee
As recruiting heated up, these four schools emerged as finalists. But by decision night, it came down to a late-stage duel: Ohio State vs. Tennessee
In a dramatic twist, he chose Tennessee “in the middle of the night,” saying:
Initially, Smith admitted, “I did not like Tennessee”
Growing up a Crimson Tide fan, it wasn’t expected. But upon visiting Knoxville, engaging deeply with Tennessee’s coaches and players, and reflecting on his long-term goals, he realized that Tennessee felt right in his heart.
He remarked:
Three core factors shaped his decision:
- State loyalty & lifestyle – Tennessee was his home, and he hoped to return there someday .
- Relationships – Strong bond with Tennessee’s players and staff, especially in the offensive line room .
- Long-term vision – Coaching continuity, family proximity, and post-football life mattered more than immediate prestige .
4. The Flip Heard ‘Round Vol Nation
Smith’s decision shocked fans and recruiters alike. Despite late efforts by Alabama—including visits from Nick Saban and Brent Key—Smith remained steadfast toward Tennessee (rockytopinsider.com).
He reflected:
At his televised commitment ceremony at Jackson High School, he emphasized Tennessee’s character and future:
Upon arriving in Knoxville in 2017, Smith made an immediate imprint:
- Historic freshman season – First true freshman to start at left tackle at Tennessee in over 30 years; earned Freshman All‑SEC and Consensus All‑America honors (utdailybeacon.com).
- Medical challenges – Diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs in February 2018; missed most of the season . Yet, he returned in 2019 and regained starting status at guard, earning First‑Team All‑SEC honors (utdailybeacon.com).
- Unexpected senior year – Turned down early NFL entry to complete his degree and boost draft stock; family and faith played significant roles .
Smith’s resilience and leadership off the field defined his impact:
- Co‑led coat donations for the Knoxville Area Rescue Ministry’s “Coats for the Cold” drive .
- Twice named to the All‑SEC Community Service Team, and finalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award .
- Earned Tennessee’s highest student honor—the Torchbearer Award in 2021; the first football player to receive it since Josh Dobbs .
- Frequently credited teammates, coaches, and med staff for helping him overcome adversity .
Smith’s life story at Tennessee was marked by purpose:
- Honor his late mother
- His mother, Dorsetta, died from blood clot complications—mirroring Trey’s own medical scare
- He promised her he’d earn his degree and play in the NFL—something he fulfilled by graduating in December 2020
- Resilience in hardship
- Battled and overcame life-threatening blood clots; medical plans were adjusted with care to allow him to play safely
- He stated: “It hasn’t always been perfect… but I love this university. I love this program.” (utsports.com).
- Leadership and legacy
- Refused to let setbacks define him. He said he wanted to be known as someone “who cared about his university… didn’t let adversity stop him… brought toughness every day” (reddit.com,
After graduating, Trey declared for the 2021 NFL Draft:
- Despite his solid play, he fell to the 6th round (226th overall)—likely due to health concernsKansas City selected him and he immediately became a fixture in their lineup:
- Named to the PFWA All‑Rookie Team (2021)
- Starting guard in Super Bowl LVII, part of the team that allowed zero sacks in their win over the Eagles
- Helped the Chiefs win Super Bowl LVIII and earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2024
- Became a pivotal player under Kansas City’s franchise tag for 2025 .
On the New Heights podcast, Smith revisited his college decision:
He also expressed gratitude for Volunteer fans:
This wasn’t just nostalgia—it reflected renewal. He had returned home, became a leader, and laid groundwork both for Tennessee and his own future.
Trey Smith’s decision goes beyond mere school rivalry:
- Identity over prestige – He chose environment & legacy over flashier programs.
- Character over convenience – Despite setbacks, he followed through on personal promises, cared for his community, and returned what he got.
- Homegrown hero – A Tennessee native who became a state icon, reshaping the image of loyalty in modern college sports.
- Reaffirmation of Vol values – His success exemplifies resilience, leadership, and the power of rooting deep.
Trey Smith’s story reminds us that greatness isn’t always found at the loudest school or brightest spotlight—it’s often where the heart is.
From childhood Crimson Tide supporter to Tennessee legend, then decorated NFL champion, every pivot he made centered around family, identity, and long-term vision. His “midnight flip” wasn’t a gamble—it was a lifelong bet on values he held dear.
