A two-time All-America selection out of Division I-AA McNeese State, named the Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Year and finished as a finalist for the Buck Buchanan award as a junior in 2006, after registering career highs in sacks (13.5), tackles (84), and tackles for a loss (23). Recorded 10.5 sacks and 22.5 tackles for a loss as senior en route to his second consecutive All-America nomination. Appeared in 31 games in his collegiate career and finished with 31 sacks, 187 tackles and 56.5 tackles for a loss.

PERSONAL:

• His mother is Helen Smith. Brother, Ryan, played football at Stephen F. Austin from 1994-97 and was a teammate of former Eagles LB Jeremiah Trotter
• Was an all-district performer in both football and basketball at Newton HS. Also lettered in track and finished in third place in the state high jump meet
• Majored in general studies