Avery Smith is a defensive back prospect for the Toledo Rockets who emerged as one of the Mid-American Conference’s most productive cornerbacks during his collegiate career. A native of East Point, Georgia, Smith attended Riverwood International Charter School, where he was a standout dual-threat quarterback and a finalist for Georgia Mr. Football after accounting for over 4,000 total yards and 44 touchdowns as a senior. Originally recruited to play quarterback at Toledo, Smith transitioned to cornerback early in his college career to better fit the team’s depth chart. Standing 5-foot-10 and about 185 pounds, he developed into a quick, instinctive defensive back known for his competitiveness and ability to break up passes.
Smith gradually worked his way into a starting role and had a breakout season in 2024, recording 58 tackles, two interceptions, and 14 pass breakups while earning Second-Team All-MAC honors. He followed that with another strong campaign in 2025, finishing with 42 tackles, 11 pass deflections, and a forced fumble while continuing to play a key role in Toledo’s secondary and on special teams. Over his career, Smith totaled more than 120 tackles and 25 passes defended, showcasing his ball skills and physicality in coverage. His production and versatility earned him invitations to the pre-draft all-star circuit and the NFL Scouting Combine, where he aimed to boost his stock as a late-round or priority free agent prospect in the NFL Draft.
