**BREAKING: Ohio State University to Honor Late Buckeyes Legend Will Smith with Life-Size Bronze Statue**
The Ohio State University has announced a powerful and lasting tribute to one of its most beloved football legends, the late Will Smith. In a move that underscores his enduring legacy both on and off the field, the university revealed plans to erect a life-size bronze statue in his honor near Ohio Stadium, set to be unveiled in the fall of 2026. Alongside this permanent memorial, Ohio State will also establish a scholarship in Smith’s name, ensuring that his impact continues to inspire future generations of Buckeyes.
Will Smith’s story is one of triumph, leadership, and profound influence. A standout defensive end for the Buckeyes from 2000 to 2003, Smith was instrumental in Ohio State’s unforgettable 2002 national championship season. Under the guidance of head coach Jim Tressel, Smith and his teammates delivered one of the most thrilling campaigns in college football history, culminating in a double-overtime victory over Miami in the Fiesta Bowl. That team’s resilience and determination became the stuff of legend, and Smith’s contributions were pivotal. His relentless pass rush, athleticism, and football IQ made him a nightmare for opposing offenses, and his leadership in the locker room set the tone for a squad that refused to back down from any challenge.
After his collegiate career, Smith was selected in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, where he continued to excel. Over nine seasons in the league, he became a cornerstone of the Saints’ defense, helping the franchise secure its first Super Bowl victory in 2010. His professional success only added to the pride Buckeye fans felt for one of their own, but it was his character off the field that truly defined him.
Smith’s tragic death in 2016 sent shockwaves through the sports world and beyond. His passing was not just a loss for football but for the countless lives he touched through his generosity, mentorship, and commitment to giving back. Whether through his work with youth programs, his advocacy for education, or his unwavering support for his alma mater, Smith embodied the values of service and excellence. Now, nearly a decade after his untimely death, Ohio State is ensuring that his legacy remains visible and influential for years to come.
The decision to commission a statue speaks volumes about how deeply Smith’s memory is cherished. Statues are rare honors, typically reserved for the most iconic figures in a program’s history. At Ohio State, the likes of Woody Hayes and Archie Griffin have been immortalized in bronze, and now Will Smith will join their ranks. The statue will serve as a permanent reminder of his contributions to Buckeye football, but also as a symbol of the kind of person he was—a leader, a champion, and a man who used his platform to uplift others.
Equally significant is the establishment of the Will Smith Memorial Scholarship, which will provide financial support to students who exemplify the same dedication to excellence, leadership, and community service that Smith demonstrated throughout his life. This scholarship ensures that his legacy isn’t just remembered in metal and stone but actively perpetuated through the education and empowerment of future Buckeyes. It’s a fitting tribute to a man who understood the importance of opportunity and the transformative power of education.
The announcement has been met with overwhelming support from former teammates, coaches, and fans. Many have taken to social media to share memories of Smith, recounting his infectious energy, his unwavering work ethic, and the profound impact he had on those around him. Former Ohio State and NFL players have praised the university’s decision, calling it a long-overdue recognition of a man who gave so much to the program and the community.
For those who knew Smith personally, the statue and scholarship are more than just honors—they are affirmations of a life well-lived. His family, who have worked tirelessly to preserve his legacy through the Will Smith Foundation, expressed deep gratitude for the university’s gesture. In a statement, they emphasized how much Ohio State meant to Smith and how proud he would be to know that his name will continue to inspire future generations.
The statue’s placement near Ohio Stadium is particularly meaningful. Known as “The Horseshoe,” the stadium is hallowed ground for Buckeye fans, a place where legends are made and history is written. Every fall, thousands of fans will pass by Smith’s statue, a reminder of the standards he set and the spirit he embodied. For recruits, current players, and alumni alike, it will stand as a challenge—to strive for greatness on the field and to make a difference beyond it.
As the 2026 unveiling approaches, the Ohio State community will undoubtedly reflect on what made Will Smith so special. It wasn’t just his athletic prowess, though that was undeniable. It was the way he carried himself—with humility, passion, and an unshakable belief in the power of teamwork. It was his willingness to mentor younger players, to give back to his community, and to represent Ohio State with pride long after his playing days were over.
In an era where the term “legend” is sometimes used too lightly, Will Smith’s story is a reminder of what it truly means to leave a lasting mark. His journey from Columbus to the NFL and his enduring influence long after his career ended exemplify the best of what college athletics can be. Ohio State’s tribute ensures that his legacy will never fade, that future generations will know his name, and that the values he stood for will continue to resonate.
The fall of 2026 will be a momentous occasion for Buckeye Nation. As the statue is unveiled, there will undoubtedly be tears, cheers, and a profound sense of pride. Will Smith may no longer be with us, but through this honor, his spirit will remain an indelible part of Ohio State’s story. And for those who take the time to pause by his statue, to read his name, or to benefit from his scholarship, the message will be clear: greatness isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about what you leave behind.
In honoring Will Smith, Ohio State isn’t just celebrating a football player. It’s celebrating a man who represented the very best of what it means to be a Buckeye. And in doing so, the university ensures that his light will never dim.
