South Carolina tight end Michael Smith plans to enter the Transfer Portal, sources cofirmed Monday. The news comes after Smith appeared in four games this season for the Gamecocks, a number that is more significant than it seems on the surface.
Under NCAA ruled, players can compete in up to four games in a single season while still preserving their redshirt eligibility. That threshold often serves as a turning point for players evaluating their future with a program, and Smith's decision aligns with that growing trend across college football.
Smith arrived at South Carolina as a four-star recruit in the Class of 2024 out of Calvary Day School in Savannah, Georgia. He was ranked as the No. 9 tight end nationally and the No. 139 overall player in his recruiting class. His size, athleticism, and route-running ability made Smith one of the more intriguining offensive additions in Shane Beamer's early recruiting cycles. Across two seasons in Columbia, Smith appeared in 16 games, recording 12 receptions for 126 yards and a touchdown. He averaged 10.5 yards per catch and 7.9 yards per game.
After hoping for a breakout season, Smith entered the fall battling some injuries that limited his availability and practice reps. Those setbacks, coupled with South Carolina's deep rotation and offensive adjustments, kept Smith from finding a consistent rhythm in the offense. He also appeared on multiple availability reports throughout the season so far.
Smith's departure from the progra4m is another shift for a Gamecock team navigating midseason changes. At 3-2 overall and 1-2 in SEC play, South Carolina is coming off a bye week and preparing for a challenging road matchup against LSU in Death Valley. Smith's decision adds another wrinkle as the Gamecocks continue to balance youth and experience on the offense. The timing also gives Smith a clean opportunity to preserve a year of eligibility and explore new opportunities.
While Smith's next destination remains to be seen, he is a blend of size and skill with SEC experience. That kind of resume will likely make him an attractive option for programs looking to add an athletic tight end to their roster.