The Ohio State University, a venerable institution steeped in athletic tradition, particularly in football, is set to honor one of its most revered sons in a truly significant manner. In 2026, the university will unveil a life-size bronze statue of former Buckeye defensive end Will Smith, a beloved figure whose impact transcended the playing field. Beyond the statue, Ohio State will also establish a scholarship in his name, solidifying his enduring legacy for generations of student-athletes to come. This multi-faceted tribute is a profound recognition of Smith’s remarkable contributions to the program, his inspiring character, and the tragic circumstances of his untimely passing.
Will Smith’s journey as a Buckeye began when he arrived in Columbus from Utica, New York. He quickly established himself as a dominant force on the defensive line, a testament to his relentless drive and exceptional talent.1 From 2000 to 2003, Smith was a four-year letterman, playing a pivotal role in one of the most iconic periods in Ohio State football history.2
His collegiate career culminated in a spectacular senior season in 2003, where he was not only named a captain of the squad but also delivered a performance that earned him numerous accolades.3 Smith recorded an impressive 10.5 sacks in his senior year, bringing his career total to 23 sacks, which ranked fifth in Ohio State’s illustrious history at the time. His dominance earned him First-Team All-American honors, Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, and Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year.4 Crucially, he was a key leader on the 2002 BCS National Championship team, a squad that went 14-0 and delivered Ohio State its first national title in 34 years.5 His contributions to that historic defense, known for its tenacity and game-changing plays, cemented his place in Buckeye lore.
After his stellar collegiate career, Smith was drafted by the New Orleans Saints as the 18th overall pick in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He went on to enjoy a highly successful 10-year NFL career, primarily with the Saints, becoming a fan favorite and a foundational piece of their defense. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2006 and, most notably, played a crucial role in the Saints’ Super Bowl XLIV victory in 2010.6 His NFL career statistics include 67.5 sacks, 20 forced fumbles, and 463 tackles, showcasing his consistent impact at the professional level. He was inducted into the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame and Ring of Honor, further validating his professional achievements.7
Beyond his athletic prowess, Will Smith was widely respected for his leadership, character, and community involvement. He was known for his humble demeanor, his fierce competitiveness, and his dedication to his teammates. He embodied the values that Ohio State aims to instill in its student-athletes, serving as a positive role model both on and off the field.
Tragically, Smith’s life was cut short on April 9, 2016, when he was shot and killed during a road rage incident in New Orleans.8 He was only 34 years old. His death sent shockwaves through the Ohio State and NFL communities, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from former teammates, coaches, and fans. The senseless nature of his passing only deepened the sense of loss for a man who had so much more to give.
The decision by Ohio State to commission a life-size bronze statue of Will Smith, to be unveiled in 2026, is a powerful gesture that ensures his physical presence will forever be a part of the university landscape. Statues at prominent athletic facilities are typically reserved for the most iconic and impactful figures in a program’s history. For Ohio State, joining the ranks of legendary figures immortalized in bronze underscores Smith’s significance. The statue will serve as a permanent tribute to his on-field excellence, particularly his role in the 2002 national championship, and a poignant reminder of a life tragically lost too soon. It will undoubtedly become a place of reflection for fans, current players, and future generations who learn about his legacy.
Complementing the statue, the establishment of a scholarship in Will Smith’s name is perhaps an even more profound way to honor his memory. Scholarships represent an investment in the future, providing opportunities for deserving student-athletes to pursue their academic and athletic dreams, just as Smith did. This scholarship will not only commemorate his name but also embody the values he represented: hard work, perseverance, leadership, and community impact. It will ensure that his influence continues to shape the lives of young men and women for decades to come, helping them achieve their potential while carrying forward the spirit of Will Smith. The scholarship will likely be awarded to a defensive lineman who exemplifies leadership and character, similar to Smith.
The process of bringing such a significant tribute to fruition involves extensive collaboration between the university’s athletic department, alumni associations, and potentially private donors. The Ohio State Athletic Department, under the leadership of its Senior Vice President and Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed Athletics Director, Ross Bjork, and his administrative team (including figures like Kim Heaton, Executive Director, Administration & Chief of Staff), would oversee such a project. Discussions would involve determining the location of the statue (likely near Ohio Stadium or the Woody Hayes Athletic Center), selecting a sculptor, and establishing the endowment for the scholarship fund.
This dual tribute to Will Smith in 2026 solidifies his place not just in Ohio State’s athletic history, but in its broader institutional memory. It goes beyond celebrating a great football player; it celebrates a great Buckeye, a national champion, a beloved teammate, and a cherished member of the Ohio State family whose life, though tragically cut short, continues to inspire. The statue will be a visible landmark, and the scholarship a living legacy, ensuring that Will Smith’s name and the values he stood for will continue to resonate deeply within the Ohio State community for generations to come.
