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South Carolina transfer TE Michael Smith commits to Ole Miss

Danby: Daniel Hager01/18/26DanielHagerOn3

South Carolina transfer sophomore tight end Michael Smith has committed to Ole Miss, On3’s Pete Nakos reports.

During his time at South Carolina, Smith hauled in 12 receptions for 126 yards and one touchdown. He departed the team midway through the 2025 season and entered the portal.

Prior to enrolling at South Carolina, Smith was ranked as a four-star prospect and the No. 139 overall player in the 2024 class, according to the Rivals Industry Rating. He was the No. 9 TE in his class and the No. 18 overall player from the state of Georgia, hailing from Calvary Day School.

Smith’s addition serves as some good news for the Ole Miss football program. It was much needed, as it was revealed on Jan. 9 that star quarterback Trinidad Chambliss‘ appeal for a sixth and final year of eligibility had been denied by the NCAA.

Chambliss opened the season as Austin Simmons‘ backup, but assumed starting duties once Simmons suffered an injury in the Rebels’ 30-23 victory over Kentucky on Sept. 6. Not only did Chambliss serviceably fill in for Simmons, but he evolved into one of the best quarterbacks in the sport. He passed for 3,937 yards and 22 touchdowns with just three interceptions this season, along with rushing for 527 yards and eight more scores.

“I’m disappointed, but not surprised,” Chambliss’ legal counsel, Tom Mars, said. “The last time I checked, however, the only score that matters is the one at the end of the fourth quarter. I assume that Ole Miss will file an appeal with the NCAA, but that’s their decision to make.”

“However, there’s now an opportunity to move this case to a level playing field where Trinidad’s rights will be determined by the Mississippi judiciary instead of some bureaucrats in Indianapolis who couldn’t care less about the law or doing the right thing. Whether to pursue that course of action is a decision only Trinidad and his parents can make.”

Ole Miss brought in Auburn quarterback Deuce Knight from the portal to replace Chambliss.

Ole Miss’ Transfer Portal Additions

Michael Smith is the 22nd Transfer Portal addition for Ole Miss.

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. 

The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.