D.J. Smith brings a proven App State pedigree and a linebacker’s eye for physical, disciplined defense
Smith is a Mountaineer through and through: App State lists him as the program’s defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, and Missouri notes he was a championship-caliber player at App State with 525 career tackles and 50 straight starts. That combination of production, toughness, and institutional knowledge makes him a strong fit for a defense that values consistency, physicality, and player development. His background suggests a coach who can command a room, teach fundamentals, and elevate a linebacker unit with real credibility.
