USC will down one center this spring following the sudden retirement of Cole Smith. The backup center, a redshirt junior, is retiring from football for health-related concerns. On Twitter, Smith confirmed he is retiring mainly due to a patellar dislocation, although arthritis was a concern as well.
I do have arthritis but I’m main retiring because of patellar dislocation. Thanks for the love though. Fight on
— Cole Smith (@coledsmith66) February 14, 2018
Smith committed to USC in August of 2014 shortly after receiving a scholarship offer from the Trojans when Steve Sarkisian was the head coach. The son of former NFL player Doug Smith, Cole Smith served his three-year collegiate career adding depth to the USC offensive line as a backup and reserve player. There was a chance Smith would be able to compete for a starting role in the fall if he was able to play to the best of his abilities, but sometimes injuries get in the way. Unfortunately for Smith, this was a decision that will be best for his long-term health.
According to Reign of Troy, USC will continue to honor Smith’s scholarship to allow him to complete his degree. SMith’s scholarship will not count against USC’s total scholarship count.
