Fayetteville State University Athletics

From overlooked prospect to National Football League offensive lineman, Kion Smith has become one of the most successful professional football players in Fayetteville State University history and a shining example of the opportunities available to student-athletes at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

A native of Lumberton High School in North Carolina, Smith arrived at Fayetteville State and developed into one of the premier offensive linemen in the CIAA. Known for his size, athleticism, and relentless work ethic, he anchored the Broncos' offensive front and helped establish Fayetteville State as one of the top programs in NCAA Division II football.

Despite having his final collegiate season impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith's potential attracted the attention of NFL scouts. Following the 2021 NFL Draft, he signed as an undrafted free agent with the Atlanta Falcons, becoming one of a select number of Broncos to earn an NFL opportunity.

Smith continued to pursue his professional dream after joining the Miami Dolphins organization later in 2021. After spending multiple seasons on NFL practice squads and developmental rosters, he earned a place on Miami's active roster in 2023, becoming one of the few Fayetteville State players to appear in an NFL regular-season game. His perseverance paid off as he established himself as a valuable member of the Dolphins' offensive line unit. 

Over his NFL career, Smith appeared in 23 regular-season games, making two starts while contributing along the offensive line and special teams. His career included playoff experience with the Dolphins and represented a significant achievement for both the university and CIAA football. 

Smith's journey from Fayetteville State to the NFL serves as one of the program's modern success stories. His development helped continue the Broncos' growing reputation for producing professional talent and reinforced the value of HBCU football on the national stage. 

Among Fayetteville State alumni, Smith joined an exclusive fraternity of Broncos to play in the NFL and helped pave the way for future professional standouts from the program. His success at the highest level of football continues to inspire current and future student-athletes to pursue their goals regardless of where their journey begins. 

For his outstanding accomplishments as a Bronco student-athlete and his achievement of reaching and competing in the National Football League, Kion Smith remains one of Fayetteville State University's most notable athletic ambassadors.