Southside High football star Derick Smith explains commitment switch from UA to Auburn

Even though Southside High football star Derick Smith made national headlines when he switched his commitment from the University of Alabama to Auburn University this summer, the teen told the Black Belt News Network this week that “nothing for real has changed.”

So why did the talented wide receiver change schools?

“I wanted to be in culture where I felt loved and like I belonged,” Smith said during an interview at Black Belt Media Day at Wallace Community College Selma on Wednesday.

Smith said Auburn coaches and players made him feel like he could “open up and talk to them.”

Another reason: “I wanted to feel like a priority,” Smith added, which is something many heavily recruited players say when committing to large, successful football programs with deep benches of talented players like Alabama. 

Smith said he expects to get playing time starting right away at Auburn.

So what does he plan to do to ensure he gets that playing time?

“I’m going to come in and learn the playbook,” he said. He also pointed to picking up key skills and leaning into the development they offer.

As for beating out his competition for a spot on the field? “I’m just going to play football.”

See the full interview with Derick Smith here.

For a story about Derick and his twin brother Erick Smith and their friendly rivalry, go here.