ASU's Clayton Smith Emerges as Two-Way Threat in Spring Experiment

The versatile defender could provide a game-changing weapon for the Sun Devils' offense in certain situations.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-motion, their body fractured into sharp, overlapping planes of color, capturing the raw athleticism and versatility of the subject.ASU's versatile defender Clayton Smith showcases his dynamic two-way potential, blurring the lines between offense and defense.Tempe Today

During ASU's spring training, defensive standout Clayton Smith was given the opportunity to play both wide receiver and his usual edge rusher role. The experiment proved successful, with Smith showcasing his athleticism and ball skills on the offensive side of the ball. While defense will likely remain his primary focus, the Sun Devils are exploring ways to utilize Smith's unique talents as a situational weapon on offense as well.

Why it matters

Smith's potential two-way role could provide the Sun Devils' offense with a dynamic X-factor, capable of making momentum-changing plays. His ability to excel both as a pass rusher and pass catcher presents a unique challenge for opposing defenses. If the experiment continues to pay dividends, it could give ASU's offense an added dimension as they look to return to the top of the Big 12.

The details

During the opening weeks of spring practice, Smith spent the majority of his reps at wide receiver, a position he had experience playing in high school. He showcased his ball skills by making multiple impressive receptions, including back-shoulder catches and 50-50 balls. While defense will likely remain his primary focus, the coaching staff is exploring ways to utilize Smith's athleticism on offense in certain situations.

  • At the start of spring practice, Smith got most of his reps at wide receiver.
  • Over the past five years, Smith has served almost exclusively as a pass rusher for the Sun Devils.
  • In his college career, Smith has one catch - a 15-yard reception off a fake punt against Kansas in 2024.

The players

Clayton Smith

A versatile defensive player for the Sun Devils who has proven to be a dominant pass rusher, but is now being experimented with on offense as well.

Glenn Arroyo

ASU's offensive coordinator, who believes Smith could be a game-changing weapon for the Sun Devils' offense.

Kenny Dillingham

ASU's head coach, who sees Smith's potential to be utilized in unique ways on offense while still maintaining his primary role on defense.

Cutter Boley

ASU's quarterback, who connected with Smith on a tight back shoulder fade pass during spring practice.

Jeremiah Harris

A Boston College transfer who, combined with Smith, could form an imposing red zone threat for the Sun Devils' offense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The dude is freaky athletic.”

— Glenn Arroyo, Offensive Coordinator

“He can be a weapon if utilized in a unique way over there.”

— Kenny Dillingham, Head Coach

“We wanted to get him to learn the offense enough to use him as a weapon in certain situations.”

— Kenny Dillingham, Head Coach

What’s next

The coaching staff plans to keep Smith focused on defense for the remainder of spring camp, barring any more situational drills on offense. However, it seems highly likely that he will earn at least some opportunities on offense during the regular season as a unique weapon for the Sun Devils.

The takeaway

Clayton Smith's emergence as a potential two-way threat for the Sun Devils could give their offense a dynamic X-factor and create mismatches for opposing defenses. While his primary role will likely remain on the defensive side of the ball, ASU's coaching staff is exploring ways to capitalize on Smith's elite athleticism and skill set in select offensive packages.