South Carolina defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Clayton White has an excellent shot at landing LB Ja’bios Smith (6-3 220) of Swainsboro, GA to play in the middle of his defense beginning in 2027. Smith, who is a nationally recruited prospect, said the Gamecocks and Georgia currently sit as his top two, with a decision coming in mid-January.
“They were one of the first schools to offer me,” Smith said of the Gamecocks. “Every time I go down there, I feel at home. I love the coaching staff, Coach White and everybody else. Me and Coach White have a close bond. He likes how I get downhill, and he likes my speed. I make plays when they need to be made.”
Smith has seen the Gamecocks a lot. He was at four games this season, so he got a good read on how White likes to deploy his linebackers.
“I like how everybody flies around,” Smith said. “Me and Coach White went over the defense, and I like their Mike linebacker, the one they’ve got out there right now. I like the way he plays.”
Smith has also had some conversations with USC head coach Shane Beamer, saying, “Every time I go down there we have a smooth little conversation.”
Smith plans to visit USC, Georgia and Texas A&M in January. He was at several Georgia games as well this season. He’s also still considering Texas, Ohio State and Tennessee. While he has his top two, he’s not yet identified a number one.
“Hard to choose right now,” he said. “I’m looking for a great coaching staff, the energy and who is staying in contact.”
This season Smith was in on 72 tackles and eight tackles for loss in nine games. For his career he’s registered 75 tackles with 16 tackles for loss and two sacks.
Smith also plays running back, and he’s rushed for 1114 yards and 24 touchdowns in his career averaging 6.5 yards per carry.