Hoping to get an early start to their college careers, almost all of Clemson’s 2015 commitments will enroll in January. Over the next few weeks, TheClemsonInsider will take an individual look at each player who will arrive next month.

Chad Smith

Sterling-Dominion (VA)

4-Star (Rivals, 247), 3-Star (Scout)

His Background. Smith committed to Clemson the same day as Jake Fruhmorgen, pulling the trigger over offers from schools like Virginia Tech and Wisconsin, among others. There may not be a more committed prospect to Clemson’s 2015 class than Smith. Brent Venables has enlisted Smith as a recruiter for the Tigers’ defense, so he’s played a role in Clemson’s pursuit of a number of prospects, including Christian Wilkins.

Quick Analysis. Smith is in the conversation as the best overall athlete in Clemson’s 2015 class. Around 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, Smith runs extremely well. It would surprise us to see Smith play all three linebacker positions during his Clemson career, though he’s probably best suited to play on the outside, particularly on the weak-side.

This Spring. If Smith’s first position is weak-side linebacker, he’ll have a chance to win a spot in the two-deep. If Ben Boulware doesn’t move to middle linebacker, he’s in line to be the starter at WILL. In addition to Smith, several young, inexperienced will work for time there, including Kendall Joseph, Korie Rogers and Jalen Williams.

Smith could also work for a two-deep job at the strong-side position. B.J. Goodson has been the starter in 2014, but he could also move to the middle. Dorian O’Daniel has worked as the second-team SAM for most of this season and would likely step into the starting job in 2015 if Goodson does make the move. Travis Blanks and T.J. Burrell could also figure into the mix.