Xavier Smith is a rangy, ball-producing safety giving UTEP a steady back-end presence
Smith has been a productive junior safety for UTEP in the 2025 season, posting 20 solo tackles, 1 interception, and 4 passes defended, with a larger 10-tackle sample in CFBStats’ split data that points to consistent involvement around the ball. At 6'0", 195 pounds, he profiles as a reliable coverage piece with enough size to support the run, and his first interception as a Miner drew praise from the program’s own social content. He looks like a fit for a defense that values steadiness, tackling, and playmaking from the secondary.
