D'Ante Smith

D'Ante Smith's Biography

D’Ante Smith, born on June 8, 1998, is a decorated and dedicated professional player in the world of American football, comfortably situated in the position of offensive tackle for the Cincinnati Bengals under the umbrella of the National Football League (NFL). His professional journey began, however, on the college football games of East Carolina, marking the commencement of his athletic career.

Smith’s early years were spent in the city of Augusta, Georgia, where he pursued his education at Grovetown High School. At this school, Smith’s athletic prowess was quickly identified and nurtured as he became an integral part of both the football and wrestling teams. His superior performance gained him recognition, and he was bestowed with the honorary titles of second-team All-Area and All-Region during his junior year. Following this acknowledgment, Smith pledged his commitment to the Appalachian State to continue his football endeavors.

However, this decision witnessed a change during Smith’s senior season. He reevaluated his initial choice and withdrew his commitment from Appalachian State. This led him to sign an agreement to further his football career at East Carolina. This decisive step marked the official beginning of Smith’s professional life.

Smith’s freshman season at East Carolina signaled a tough time filled with injuries. Watching his team from the sidelines due to a season-ending injury in his opening game, Smith was forced to use a medical redshirt. Perseverance and resilience emerged as the shining traits of Smith’s character as he moved on to commence his senior year, having already initiated 33 games.

The obstacle of injury hounded Smith yet again during his redshirt senior season’s opening. After much consideration, he chose to withdraw from the year to focus on recovery, physical training, and preparation for the 2021 NFL draft.

Smith’s tireless efforts and determination bore fruit when he was chosen during the fourth round of the 2021 NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals with a 139th overall pick. This marked the start of his professional journey with the NFL. He signed his first four-year rookie contract with Cincinnati Bengals on May 17, 2021.

However, in later months, Smith’s career faced another hurdle when he was placed on injured reserve on October 16, 2021. After a period of much-needed rest and recovery, Smith re-entered the game on December 18, 2021, in the Week 16 matchup against the Denver Broncos.

The 2022 season saw Smith performing as the backup left tackle to Jonah Williams and establishing himself into the role as the team’s swing tackle, specifically on running plays that utilize a sixth offensive lineman. Following this, Smith continued as backup left tackle in 2023, supporting Orlando Brown Jr., who was a new addition to the Bengals team via free agency.

Unfortunately, the 2024 season witnessed Smith suffering a severe patellar tendon tear during training camp, which deterred his participation for that season. This is a testament to the professional trials Smith has faced throughout his journey in football. Despite hardships and hurdles, D’Ante Smith has managed to carve a significant name for himself within the National Football League.