RB Jeremy Smith, who announced back in December that he would be transferring from UofL for his final year of eligibility, has instead returned to UofL to finish out his college career.
BREAKING: Former Louisville running back Jeremy Smith has returned to the Cardinals’ football program for his senior season per multiple sources. Smith went through his first practice on Tuesday afternoon.
— Jody Demling (@jdemling) August 29, 2018
Smith played in the opener against Purdue last year, but suffered an injury to his foot before the next game and was forced to miss the rest of the season. He originally intended to apply for a medical redshirt and finish his career at UofL.
In December, plans changed as Smith announced he would be transferring out to play his final year. He was seeking a program where he could hopefully work and become the featured RB.
In the end, Smith is back at UofL and will add talented, experienced depth to the backfield. Smith may be able to help fill the hole at FB where Tobias Little was expected to be the starter.
According to Jody Demling, Smith has to practice for a full week before being able to play in a game. Since he just returned to practice Tuesday afternoon, it means he won’t be available versus Alabama.
The talent Smith possessed was always evident when he played. Smith had speed and power. He could lower his shoulder and run between the tackles or get the edge and get a big gain. Smith was also an adept pass catcher out of the backfield. The one major issue Jeremy Smith had was fumbling. He had some key fumbles in big games.
Smith could likely spend time at both FB and RB for Coach Petrino. If Smith can get the fumbling issues under control and stay healthy, he is a playmaking RB with all the tools. It appears to be a win-win for all parties involved.
