Clayton Smith Speaks on Final Season at Arizona State

The fourth-year Sun Devil is valuing time that he is spending on both sides of the ball.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting in bold, geometric shapes and planes, depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a college football player in action, without any recognizable faces or logos.An abstract, cubist-inspired illustration captures the dynamic movements and energy of a college football player as he navigates the field, hinting at the versatility and leadership he brings to his team.Tucson Today

Arizona State athlete Clayton Smith spoke to the media on Thursday for the first time since officially returning to the program as a result of receiving a medical waiver by the NCAA in March. Smith discussed his experience playing wide receiver during spring practice, the relationships he built with certain defensive backs, and his expectations for the upcoming season as a leader on the defensive line.

Why it matters

Smith's versatility and leadership will be crucial for an Arizona State defense that is undergoing significant changes from the previous season. As one of the longest-tenured starters on that side of the ball, his ability to contribute both on the edge and in specialized offensive packages could give the Sun Devils an added dimension.

The details

Smith made a point to shout out former NFL player Hines Ward, who serves as a coach, for the unique perspective he offered during Smith's time at wide receiver. Smith also revealed that he enjoyed interacting with Texas transfer Caleb Chester and LSU transfer Ashton Stamps, the defensive backs he worked with while playing on offense. While Smith showed promise as a receiver, it's more likely that he will primarily play off the edge this season, with specialized packages utilizing his athleticism. Smith and interior defensive lineman C.J. Fite are now the longest-tenured starting-level players on the defensive side of the ball, setting the stage for them to be major leaders as Arizona State's defense undergoes significant changes.

  • Smith officially returned to the program and received a medical waiver from the NCAA in March 2026.
  • Smith spoke to the media on Thursday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Clayton Smith

A fourth-year athlete at Arizona State University who recently returned to the program after receiving a medical waiver from the NCAA.

Hines Ward

A former NFL player who serves as a coach and provided a unique perspective to Smith during his time playing wide receiver.

Caleb Chester

A defensive back who transferred to Arizona State from the University of Texas.

Ashton Stamps

A defensive back who transferred to Arizona State from Louisiana State University.

C.J. Fite

An interior defensive lineman who is the other longest-tenured starting-level player on the defensive side of the ball for Arizona State.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Coach Ward, he's hilarious, man. He offers a unique perspective to the game. You know, I haven't lived it and being who he is, but it was...it was a great opportunity.”

— Clayton Smith, Arizona State Athlete

What’s next

Smith is set to be a major part of Arizona State's defense in the upcoming season, as the Sun Devils look to prove doubters wrong and build on their previous campaign.

The takeaway

Smith's versatility and leadership will be crucial for an Arizona State defense that is undergoing significant changes. His ability to contribute on both sides of the ball, combined with his experience and vocal presence, could give the Sun Devils an added dimension as they look to exceed expectations in the 2026 season.