ABILENE – Abilene Christian added former first-round NFL draft pick Jason Smith to its coaching staff as tight ends coach.
Smith comes to ACU from the staff of the University of North Texas, where he was an offensive analyst working with the offensive line. He also was an offensive line assistant with the Kansas City Chiefs.
"We are very excited to welcome Jason to the staff," said ACU Offensive Coordinator Rick Bowie. "He brings a wealth of knowledge through his time as a player and coach at the highest level. Each day he gives great energy to our program as well as extensive experience coaching collegiately in Texas. Looking forward to getting to work here in Abilene!"
Smith played tight end and tackle for Baylor, where he was a team captain, and earned All-America and All-Conference honors. He was the first-round pick (second overall pick) by the then-St. Louis Rams as an offensive tackle.
Smith was with the Rams until joining the New York Jets in 2012 and the New Orleans Saints in 2013. He finished his NFL career in 2014.
"I am happy to be a part of the amazing campus and football team and what coach
Keith Patterson is doing," said Smith. "I believe in his leadership and am ready to follow the vision that God has given him and do my part in ACU winning this season."
