
Ben Smiley gives UConn a seasoned edge-setting DL with power and production
In the 2025 season, Ben Smiley III brought veteran juice to Connecticut after 40 career games at Virginia, and his profile screams dependable, high-motor edge defender: 6'4", 245 pounds, disruptive enough to post 50 career tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks before arriving in Storrs. His value goes beyond the box score—he’s a multi-year, battle-tested defender who can handle real snaps, set a physical tone, and provide stability on the line. If your team wants experience, versatility, and a blue-collar trench player who knows how to show up, Smiley fits.






